On March 15, 2025, the stakes were high as FSV Mainz 05 hosted SC Freiburg at the Mainz Arena. The clash between these two Bundesliga teams finished in a thrilling 2-2 draw, which maintained both sides' hopes of qualifying for European competition next season.
With 33,305 spectators cheering from the stands, the match reflected the fierce competitiveness of the Bundesliga. Mainz started strong, with star player Jonathan Burkardt scoring the opening goal in the 34th minute. Burkardt capitalized on Anthony Caci's well-placed cross, nudging the ball past Freiburg goalkeeper Noah Atubolu, who had enjoyed 609 minutes without conceding prior to this match. Burkardt's goal marked his 15th of the season and broke Atubolu's streak, showcasing the determined spirit of Mainz.
Yet, the match took a turn just ten minutes later. Mainz faced adversity when midfielder Dominik Kohr received a red card for pulling down Freiburg's Lucas Höler just outside the penalty area. Initially booked for a yellow card, the decision was changed to red after the VAR review determined it was a last-man foul. This forced Mainz to play with ten men for the second half.
Despite being down to ten players, Mainz looked to maintain their lead. The second half began with Freiburg applying pressure, and it only took 13 minutes for them to equalize. Michael Gregoritsch, who had been substituted in earlier, found the back of the net with a header from Christian Günter's cross, demonstrating Freiburg's persistence and ability to capitalize on chances.
Just when it seemed Freiburg would take full control, Mainz regrouped and struck back. Andreas Hanche-Olsen scored for the home side, heading the ball home after the Freiburg defense failed to clear it effectively, bringing the score to 2-1. The crowd erupted as Mainz players celebrated, hoping to hold onto their narrow lead.
Yet, the resilient Freiburg side was not done yet. Just five minutes after Mainz's second goal, Lukas Kübler, who had been introduced as one of the substitutes, sealed the draw for Freiburg with another well-placed finish after being set up by Ritsu Doan. This goal showcased Freiburg's depth and their ability to respond quickly to setbacks, with Kübler equalizing at 2-2.
Post-match, Burkardt reflected on the tie, stating, "The result is acceptable, considering we played with one less player for over half the match. There’s also some disappointment because when you go up 2-1 late on, you want to hold onto the win.” Meanwhile, Freiburg's coach Julian Schuster expressed his team's disappointment, noting, "We are disappointed because we played very well and had more chances. We wanted to take more from this game."
Both teams leave the pitch with something to show for their efforts. Mainz is now on 45 points, maintaining their position in the top three, having gone six games without defeat, whereas Freiburg sits comfortably with 42 points and has not lost for seven consecutive matches.
Looking to the future, Mainz will face Borussia Dortmund, and Freiburg is set to play against Union Berlin after the international break. The competition between these two teams promises to remain intense as they both aim for valuable points to secure their places on the European stage.
The match not only highlighted the spirit and quality of both teams but also the sportsmanship and unpredictability inherent within the Bundesliga. With players on both sides giving their all, fans were treated to an engaging match steeped with drama, resolve, and excitement.