1. FSV Mainz 05 @ VfL Wolfsburg - August 31, 2025

The VfL Wolfsburg will beat the 1. FSV Mainz 05. The total will go over.

Examining the statistics, Wolfsburg shows superior scoring ability with an average of 1.6 goals per game, compared to Mainz’s 1.6. However, Wolfsburg’s more consistent offense is measurable through its higher shots per game count of 12.7, narrowly eclipsing Mainz’s 12.4. Notably, Wolfsburg also boasts an impressive 4.0 shots on target per match compared to Mainz’s 4.2. While both teams exhibit a similar passing efficiency, Wolfsburg’s marginal edge in passing accuracy could translate into more meaningful possession and scoring opportunities.

On the defensive side, both teams commit a noteworthy amount of fouls — Wolfsburg with 10.2 and Mainz with 11.9. This trend suggests a potential for set-piece opportunities, which could further boost goal tallies. With both teams showing offensive firepower relative to their scoring averages, combined with the likelihood of fouls leading to dangerous free-kicks, I fully anticipate a high-scoring affair. Therefore, not only do I predict a Wolfsburg victory, but the total goals scored in this matchup should exceed the average, folding into a match conducive to an entertaining and dynamic outcome.