Werder Bremen travel to face FSV Mainz 05 on Saturday aiming to build on their solid start and end a run of three games without a win. The Bundesliga match at the Mewa Arena kicks off at 15:30 local time and represents the eighth matchday of the season.
Their record shows two wins, three draws and one defeat. Last time out, Werder salvaged a 2-2 home draw against SC Paderborn 07, with Niclas Füllkrug scoring twice. Their recent form over the last five matches reads one win, three draws and one loss. Füllkrug is the clear top scorer for Bremen this season with six goals in six appearances.
Werder's recent results have been mixed. A 3-2 win over Augsburg was followed by a heavy 7-0 friendly defeat to Twente. However, they then picked up important points with a 2-2 draw in Dortmund and the aforementioned stalemate against Paderborn. The defence has already conceded twelve league goals, an area that needs addressing.
FSV Mainz 05 are currently in fifth place and come into the match with momentum from a 4-3 victory over Borussia Mönchengladbach. The Nullfünfner are a dangerous opponent, particularly strong at home. A repeat of that performance must be avoided at all costs.
Last time out, he fielded goalkeeper Hein and a back four of Arthur, Pieper, Friedl and Deman. Reis, Regeer and Eren Dinkçi operated in midfield, with Chuky San José, Grüll and Niclas Füllkrug forming the attack. Given the upcoming challenge and the current standings, the coach could make changes.
For Bremen, this away fixture is a key test to avoid losing touch with the leading pack. They currently trail leaders Bayern Munich by five points. A positive result in Mainz would boost confidence ahead of the next matchday.
