**Mainz 05 Edge Past Union Berlin 2-1, Barreiro and Lee Jae-sung Secure Relief from Relegation Pressure**
In a thrilling Bundesliga encounter, Mainz 05 secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Union Berlin, moving them closer to safety and providing a much-needed boost in their relegation battle. The match, played at the Volkswagen Arena, was a tense affair, with both sides creating chances but ultimately Mainz 05 emerging victorious thanks to clinical finishing.
The scoreline was settled in the 16th minute when Kevin Ehlen set up Anthony Caci for a straightforward finish, putting Mainz ahead. Despite Union Berlin responding with a goal from Kevin Volland, Mainz refused to back down. Substitute Dejan Barreiro, who came on in the 58th minute, made a decisive impact, slotting home the second goal shortly after halftime. Barreiro, who had been struggling for form recently, delivered a moment of brilliance to secure the points for Mainz.
On the other side, Union Berlin, who were aiming to solidify their position in the Bundesliga, struggled to find their rhythm. Their task was made harder by the clinical performance of Mainz 05's attack, particularly after Lee Jae-sung was introduced in the 70th minute. The South Korean winger played a pivotal role, creating chances and providing much-needed width to Mainz's play. While Union Berlin's second-half pressure did eventualy lead to a goal through Volland, Mainz's defense held firm to preserve their lead.
The win is a significant relief for Mainz 05, who had been under immense pressure due to their poor form in recent weeks. Head coach Bo Svensson will be eager to build on this performance heading into their upcoming fixtures. For Union Berlin, the defeat heaps more pressure as they aim to avoid relegation. With just five points separating them from the drop zone, every match becomes crucial.
Both teams will take stock of their performance ahead of their next fixtures. Mainz 05 will look to maintain their momentum, while Union Berlin must regroup and find a way to turn their form around. The Bundesliga race is far from over, but this result has given Mainz 05 a much-needed boost in their battle to stay in Germany's top tier.