Mainz 05 has the opportunity to take a significant step towards the quarter-finals in the Conference League on Thursday, facing Sigma Olomouc in the round of 16. The match kicks off at 21:00 and will be streamed live on swr.de/sport. Christian Heidel, the sporting director of Mainz 05, warns against the Czech cup winner, who is considered an uncomfortable and resilient opponent. Sigma Olomouc has already proven their ability to deliver strong performances this season. While Mainz 05 qualified directly for the round of 16, Olomouc had to navigate through the playoffs, where they defeated FC Lausanne-Sport.

Mainz 05 will be without Sheraldo Becker and Nadiem Amiri for the match. Amiri continues to struggle with a heel injury, while Becker could not be registered for the competition after his winter transfer. Coach Urs Fischer does not see his team as favorites despite the absences and emphasizes the strength of Sigma Olomouc. He describes the team as compact and well-organized, particularly dangerous after set pieces.

However, sporting director Niko Bungert has a positive feeling following the recent Bundesliga match against VfB Stuttgart, which ended in a 2-2 draw. He is convinced that the team is on the right path and hopes to confirm this performance in European competition. Mainz 05 aims to make history with a victory against Sigma Olomouc, potentially reaching their first quarter-final in a European cup competition.