Mainz 0-1 Borussia Dortmund: Axel Witsel strikes as visitors move

Axel Witsel scored his first goal in over two years to give Borussia Dortmund victory over Mainz in the Bundesliga. The result keeps the visitors within touching distance of Bayern Munich at the top of the table. The hosts' victory was vital as it kept them in touch with the leaders. Earlier in the match‚ Mainz were on the verge of relegation but were able to turn around their season by winning the game. The win was crucial for Dortmund because it brought them closer to Bayern Munich. However‚ the match was delayed due to an outbreak of the coronavirus‚ with Axel Witsel scoring the winner late on. After the break‚ Julian Brandt missed a good chance to score in added time and Reyna forced Zentner into a fine save. Despite this setback‚ Borussia Dortmund moved within four points of Bayern Munich‚ a point behind the German side. The first half was a cagey affair‚ with both sides battling for the initiative.

Anton Stach and Thorgan Hazard both had half-chances‚ but both were unsuccessful. The visitors missed the attacking presence of Erling Haaland‚ and their chances of a late goal were limited. Although the visitors were a better team in the first half‚ their defending was lacking.