Mainz hoped to fight for European places this season but find themselves in a relegation battle, and their squad definitely deserves better. Mainz are just a point clear of relegation zone, and their recent results were positive and convincing – they defeated Hertha Berlin and managed to draw 2:2 at Bayern Munich, even flirting with a win against the champions. Borussia Monchengladbach have little to play for in midtable and their spirit is low after the dramatic penalty shoot-out loss to Frankfurt in the German Cup semifinals on Tuesday.
The difference between the two teams is clear. Mainz are in form, fresh, and very highly motivated. Borussia Monchengladbach are tired, mentally exhausted, and might struggle to find resources to put up a decent fight. The odds on Mainz are extremely good at 2.25 in these circumstances and it is logical to suggest the home win as a decent investment. It should also be noted that Borussia Monchengladbach games tend to be high scoring lately, with their defense suddenly far from stable but their attack quite potent. That makes the odds on over 2.5 goals look tempting at 1.75.