Two of the less fashionable clubs in the Bundesliga, but both continue to punch above their weight and both started with a win last week. Union have the longest unbeaten run in the whole league with seven wins and a draw in their last eight games, and did the double over Mainz last season. Mainz had a strong home record with 35 points last season, but it's hard to split these sides so a draw is the shout here. 1:1
Union Berlin have won 7 of their last 8 matches (Bundesliga). There have been over 2.5 goals scored in Mainz's last 5 games (Bundesliga). Union Berlin have scored at least 3 goals in their last 3 matches (Bundesliga). Union Berlin have been winning at both half time and full time in 5 of their last 7 matches (Bundesliga). There have been over 2.5 goals scored in Union Berlin's last 4 away games (Bundesliga). Mainz are undefeated in 12 of their last 13 home matches (Bundesliga). Mainz have scored at least 2 goals in their last 4 matches (Bundesliga).
Danny da Costa has problems with his adductors. Jonathan Burkardt and Niklas Tauer both have thigh problems. Timo Baumgartl is recovering from testicular cancer. Tymoteusz Puchacz is still struggling with his fitness too, but could make the squad.