Mainz 05 Defeats TSG Hoffenheim in Heart-Breaking Comeback Victory with Kramarić's Game-Winning Assist

Mainz 05 secured their first win over TSG Hoffenheim in two months on Saturday, thanks to a dramatic comeback victory courtesy of midfielder Ivan Kramarić's game-winning assist.

The match was tight from the start, with both sides creating chances but failing to find the back of the net. However, it was Mainz who took the lead early on through a well-taken goal from striker Stefan Finnbogason.

TSG Hoffenheim responded quickly though, equalizing just before halftime through a clinical finish from forward Mario Gómez. The teams went into the break level at 1-1.

In the second half, Mainz looked to have taken control as they dominated possession and created several chances. But TSG Hoffenheim refused to give up and began to push forward.

With just minutes remaining, Mainz found themselves behind once again after a poor header from defender Rudi Völler. It seemed like all hope was lost for Mainz when TSG Hoffenheim nearly scored another goal, only for goalkeeper Maxime Lopez to make a crucial save to keep the scoreline tied at 2-2.

But then came the moment that everyone had been waiting for - Mainz had one last chance to snatch a draw or even take the lead. And it was Kramarić who stepped up to deliver the decisive blow.

The Croatian midfielder received the ball deep in his own half, where he found himself one-on-one with TSG Hoffenheim's goalkeeper. With time running out and the pressure mounting, Kramarić calmly played a pinpoint pass to Finnbogason, who drilled a shot past the helpless keeper to secure the vital three points for Mainz.

It was a heartbreaking defeat for TSG Hoffenheim, who will now be looking to bounce back in the coming weeks. But for Mainz, this was a much-needed boost ahead of the upcoming international break. The victory is sure to provide a much-needed confidence boost for the team heading into their next fixture against Borussia Mönchengladbach.