Mainz 05 host Schalke 04 in a pivotal Bundesliga clash as both teams strive to break a recent slump. Schalke, reeling from a three-game losing streak, will target a much-needed victory to salvage their top-seven ambitions. Mainz, meanwhile, aim to capitalize on the momentum gained from a recent 2-1 win over Werder Bremen, with star forward Jonathan Burkhardt poised to cause problems for the visiting defense.