Eintracht Frankfurt secured a 3-1 victory over Mainz 05 in the Bundesliga on Saturday, with Germany-born Turkish forward Can Uzun scoring twice to inspire the visitors to victory at the MEWA Arena.
Frankfurt took an early lead in the ninth minute when Jonathan Burkardt played Uzun through, with the forward keeping his composure to fire a low finish past the Mainz goalkeeper.
The hosts had a chance to level from the penalty spot two minutes before half-time, but Nadiem Amiri saw his effort saved by Frankfurt goalkeeper Noah Atubolu.
The visitors immediately capitalised on the reprieve, with Burkardt doubling their advantage in the 45th minute following a quick attacking move.
Frankfurt extended their lead shortly after the restart, with Uzun completing his brace in the 60th minute.
Substitute Mario Götze, introduced a minute earlier, provided the assist for the 20-year-old forward’s second goal.
Mainz continued to push for a way back into the contest and eventually reduced the deficit in the 89th minute.
Otto Ruoppi supplied the cross, which Phillip Tietz converted to make it 3-1.
Despite Mainz enjoying 55 per cent possession and registering 18 shots compared to Frankfurt’s 11, the visitors proved more clinical in front of goal.
Frankfurt converted all three of their big chances, while Mainz failed to take any of their three major opportunities.
Atubolu’s penalty save proved particularly important as Frankfurt held on to claim all three points.
The goalkeeper also made four saves during the encounter.
Uzun was the standout performer, earning a 9.2 rating for his display.
He finished both of his shots on target, while also completing 37 of 42 passes and creating two key chances.
Burkardt also produced an influential performance, scoring once and assisting Uzun’s opener before being substituted. Frankfurt’s victory leaves Mainz frustrated after their inability to turn their possession and chances into goals.
