Wolfsburg 2-1 Mainz 05: VfL Wolfsburg beats Mainz 05 with Enner Valencia scoring.

**Wolfsburg 2-1 Mainz 05: VfL Wolfsburg edges out Mainz 05 in thrilling encounter**

In a match that kept football fans on the edge of their seats, VfL Wolfsburg emerged victorious over Mainz 05 with a 2-1 win. The game, played at the Volkswagen Arena, saw Wolfsburg secure a crucial three points in their battle to avoid relegation, while Mainz 05’s European aspirations took a slight hit.

The first half was relatively evenly contested, with both teams creating chances. Wolfsburg took the lead in the 32nd minute when Enner Valencia, on loan from West Ham United, fired a powerful shot past Mainz goalkeeper Robin Zentner. The goal, which came after a well-worked move, was a moment of brilliance and gave Wolfsburg the initiative.

Mainz responded well and almost leveled the score minutes later when Kevin Volland’s strike from outside the box rattled the crossbar. The visitors continued to press, and Wolfsburg’s defense, led by the experienced pair of Marcel Schäfer and William, stood firm. However, the hosts were dealt a blow in the 57th minute when Valencia struck again. A perfectly timed through ball from Andre Draxl-Dybkjær found Valencia, who slotted home from close range. Wolfsburg was now 2-0 up, and Mainz seemed to be in a bit of trouble.

Mainz refused to back down, though. In the 75th minute, Mainz striker Volland fired a low shot past Wolfsburg goalkeeper Koen Casteijn, who had been called into action earlier in the match. The goal brought the crowd to life, and Mainz pushed for an equalizer. But Wolfsburg’s defense held firm, and despite a series of attacks, Mainz couldn’t find the back of the net again.

The final minutes were a tense affair as both teams fought for control. Wolfsburg held on for a hard-fought 2-1 victory, which could be a crucial three points in their quest to avoid relegation. For Mainz, the loss was a setback in their quest for European qualification, but they remain in a strong position to secure a top-half finish.

In the end, Wolfsburg’s clinical finishing and defensive resilience proved the difference, as they edged out Mainz 05 in a thrilling encounter. Both teams have important matches ahead, but Wolfsburg will take plenty of confidence from this win as they continue their fight to stay in the Bundesliga.