Mainz 05 Stun Racing Straßburg to Move Closer to Historic Conference League Semi-Finals
FSV Mainz 05 is dreaming of a historic milestone after a dominant 2-0 victory over title contenders Racing Straßburg in the first leg of the Conference League quarter-finals on April 9, 2026. The result ensures that a home victory puts Mainz on the path to the semi-finals, marking the furthest the club has ever progressed in a European competition.
The match was defined by spectacular goals that secured the win for the German side. The breakthrough came in the 11th minute when Sano beat two defenders with a skillful dribble before firing a shot from the edge of the penalty area that clipped the inside of the post and found the back of the net. Mainz doubled their lead in the 19th minute through Stefan Posch; the January loan signing from Como hammered home a stunning volley following a corner kick.
This victory extends Mainz’s current unbeaten streak to nine matches, following a recent 2-1 away win against TSG Hoffenheim on the 28th Bundesliga matchday. The club’s current trajectory is a stark contrast to their situation in December, when 60-year-old Swiss manager Urs Fischer took over the squad while they were languishing in 18th place and facing a serious relegation battle.
Fischer has credited the turnaround to a collective agreement within the group to prioritize team goals over individual grievances, such as playing time. He noted that being present in Europe is vital for the club’s project. Sport Director Niko Bungert echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the need to utilize the current “euphoria” without becoming complacent.
The victory was fueled by a dominant first-half performance that left Strasbourg reeling, leaving the French side with a mountain to climb in the return leg.
Mainz 05 will look to secure their historic spot in the semi-finals when they travel to France on April 16, 2026. If they progress, they could face either AEK Athens or Rayo Vallecano, with the Spanish side currently holding a significant advantage after a 3-0 win over AEK. With the momentum firmly on their side, Urs Fischer has the team dreaming of a European semi-final.
