Mainz maintained their perfect record in the UEFA Conference League by scoring a decisive 95th-minute goal to clinch a 2-1 victory against Fiorentina at the Mewa Arena. This result marked Fiorentina's 10th loss in 17 encounters with German teams (4 wins, 3 draws).
Both teams, seen as strong contenders for the trophy next spring, fought fiercely for early dominance. Mainz started more assertively with Nelson Weiper, who scored the winner recently against Zrinjski Mostar, directing a promising header straight at Fiorentina's goalkeeper Tommaso Martinelli.
Fiorentina soon quieted the Mewa Arena crowd, capitalizing on their first opportunity. Roberto Piccoli passed the ball to Simon Sohm, who unleashed a powerful first-time shot past Mainz keeper Robin Zentner at his near post.
Simon Sohm celebrated his first goal for Fiorentina enthusiastically.
Sohm almost shared the moment with Piccoli as Niccolo Fortini's cross nearly allowed Piccoli to slide in a second goal, but Zentner’s legs denied the attempt.
On the 38th minute, Fiorentina nearly doubled their lead when Dodo’s pass reached Jacopo Fazzini, whose shot was blocked at close range by Mainz’s teenage defender Kacper Potulski. After halftime, Fiorentina continued to threaten mainly down the right side.
Both teams displayed strong determination throughout the match, with Mainz ultimately prevailing in dramatic fashion.
Author's summary: Mainz extended their flawless UEFA Conference League run by scoring a late winner to edge out Fiorentina 2-1, highlighting strong efforts and tight competition from both sides.