Mainz 05 - Paderborn

Mainz 05 and Paderborn begin their Bundesliga journeys on 29 August 2026 at the MEWA Arena. Both sides enter this opening matchday with momentum from the DFB Pokal, where Mainz 05 secured a dominant 9-0 victory over VfB Krieschow. Paderborn also enjoyed a successful start to their competitive season, overcoming 1. FC Phoenix Luebeck with a 4-2 win. These results provide a positive platform for both squads as they shift their focus to the challenges of the top flight.

The two clubs last met in the Bundesliga during the 2019-2020 campaign, a season where Mainz 05 claimed victories both at home and away. With the expected XI for Mainz 05 featuring Robin Zentner in goal and Sheraldo Becker leading the line, the hosts will look to maintain their historical edge. Paderborn, led by Nahuel Noll, arrive seeking to disrupt that trend and establish an early foothold in the league table.