MAINZ, Germany (AP) – Hoffenheim conceded a late goal on Friday to draw 1-1 with Mainz, missing out on a record fifth straight Bundesliga title.
Mainz started the game second from the bottom of the table with just one win in 10 games. Five of their seven losses were by one point, and when they found themselves behind after nine minutes, it looked like they were in sixth place.
Hoffenheim striker Fisnik Ashlani and Mainz defender Andreas Hantsche-Olsen delivered a long cross from the left, but the ball hit the head of a Mainz player and deflected into the net.
However, after a scramble for the goal, Mainz got a well-deserved equaliser, with Danny da Costa firing home from close range.
In an action-packed final period, Aslani hit the post for Mainz, Dominic Cole was shown a red card in the dying minutes, and Ifras Bebou scored the final goal for Hoffenheim.
The result was Philipp on the eve of a difficult situation for Mainz. Seven matches are scheduled over the next 24 days until Germany’s winter break on December 21st. This includes three Europa Conference League games and a visit to Bundesliga side Bayern Munich.
They remain second to last, one point ahead of Heidenheim.
Hoffenheim remained in 6th place.
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