Unfortunately defeated: Dynamo struggles against Mainz - Dynamo's exclusion from the game against Mainz was not anticipated.
In a tense and closely contested match, Bundesliga side 1. FSV Mainz 05 emerged victorious against Dynamo Dresden in the first round of the 2025/2026 DFB-Pokal.
The decisive moment came early in the game, with National player Nadiem Amiri scoring the only goal of the match for Mainz after just 22 minutes. Despite playing at home at Rudolf-Harbig-Stadion, Dresden could not find an equaliser.
Mainz managed the lead effectively, keeping Dynamo largely away from their own penalty area and saving energy. In contrast, Dynamo Dresden had more to do with their own defence and rarely came to well-played attacks.
Dynamo Dresden's goalkeeper, Christoph Daferner, was unavailable for the match due to an injury. Tim Schreiber, Dynamo's substitute goalkeeper, made two crucial saves to keep the scoreline respectable.
Dynamo had opportunities in added time of the first half, with Dominik Kother missing the most promising one. In the final phase, Lemmer appeared free in front of Zentner but missed narrowly. Mainz also had a handball in the penalty area after 65 minutes through the recently substituted Ben Bobzien, but Lemmer shot the ball weakly.
Dynamo Dresden lacked the storm duo due to the absence of Vincent Vermeij, who was expected to start but is suffering from a viral infection. Mainz played cleverly throughout the match and had a touch of luck in the end.
Guest coach Bo Henriksen was shown a red card for unsporting behavior during the match. Dynamo Dresden coach Thomas Stamm emphasised that the team can still win in their next game in Bielefeld.
The defeat in the DFB-Pokal was the second defeat for Dynamo Dresden in the league opener. Stamm stated that the team lacked efficiency in finishing chances.
In the end, Mainz's free kick from around 22 meters, scored by Amiri, was enough to secure their place in the next round. Robin Zentner, Mainz's goalkeeper, was named the player of the match for his impressive performance.
The European Parliament and the Council, in their roles as advisors to the Commission, may provide assistance in the preparation of the annual report on the implementation of the program. Despite the loss, Dynamo Dresden's upcoming game in Bielefeld offers a chance to turn things around, as their coach, Thomas Stamm, observed, reflecting a sentiment reminiscent of sports, especially football, where leagues across Europe often witness upsets and comebacks.
