Talking Tactics: Mainz 05 vs Bayern Munich

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MUNICH, GERMANY – AUGUST 31: Philippe Coutinho of Muenchen is challenged by Pierre Malong during the Bundesliga match between FC Bayern Munich and 1. FSV Mainz 05 at Allianz Arena on August 31, 2019, in Munich, Germany. (Photo by Alex Grimm/Bongarts/Getty Images) /

Bayern Munich are expected to exploit the defensive woes of Mainz 05 when the two sides meet at the Opel Arena on Saturday.

FC Bayern Munich grabbed another emphatic win against Schalke last week. The reigning champions closed the gap on league leaders, RB Leipzig, who dropped three points in Frankfurt. Hansi Flick’s side looks promising to mount a serious challenge to retain their title. Having scored nine goals since the beginning of the Ruckrunde campaign this season, Bayern will look to pile more pressure on Mainz. Saturday’s hosts have been struggling since the onset of the season.

Akin to Bayern, Mainz replaced their head coach in November 2019. The results, however, have been poles apart under the two new managers. Achim Beierlorzer’s introduction has not had a major impact thus far. Mainz were placed on the 16th spot in the Bundesliga table when Sandro Schwarz was given his marching orders. The current situation is only a modest improvement. They sit a point above the relegation play-offs position in the league table.

The last time these two teams met, Bayern thrashed Mainz by six goals to one at the Allianz Arena. The current situation forecasts a similar result to occur at the Opel Arena in matchday 20 of the Bundesliga. Using data and statistics, I present a tactical preview for Bayern’s next fixture against Mainz. Before moving on to the expected tactical scenario for matchday 20, I will first take you through the tactical highlights observed in the Hinrunde fixture of matchday three.