Rot-Weiss Erfurt 0 – 3 Mainz II: Dominant Display from Mainz Reserves in Pre-Season Friendly

Rot-Weiss Erfurt welcomed Mainz II to the Steigerwaldstadion on July 11, 2026, for an International Club Friendly encounter. The visitors, the reserve side of Bundesliga outfit Mainz 05, delivered a polished performance to cruise to a 3-0 victory, leaving the hosts with plenty to work on ahead of the new season.

Match Overview

From the opening whistle, Mainz II controlled possession and pressed high, making it difficult for Erfurt to build from the back. The first breakthrough came midway through the first half when a swift counter-attack was finished coolly by the Mainz forward. The visitors doubled their lead just before the interval with a well-worked set-piece, leaving the home side trailing 2-0 at the break.

Second Half and Key Moments

After the restart, Rot-Weiss Erfurt showed more urgency but lacked precision in the final third. Mainz II, however, remained composed and added a third goal in the 68th minute through a clinical strike from the edge of the box. Erfurt’s best chance came from a free-kick that sailed just wide, but the defense of Mainz II held firm to secure a clean sheet.

Standout Performers

• Mainz II attacking midfielder: Instrumental in linking play and creating chances, his movement caused constant problems.
• Erfurt goalkeeper: Made several sharp saves to prevent the scoreline from becoming more lopsided.

Friendly Context

For Rot-Weiss Erfurt, this match served as an important test against a tactically disciplined side, highlighting areas needing improvement in defensive organization. Mainz II, meanwhile, continue their pre-season preparations with a confidence-boosting result as they aim to develop young talents for the first team.