# TSG Hoffenheim 3-1 Mainz 05: Kramarić, the Star of the Comeback
The football world witnessed a thrilling encounter as TSG Hoffenheim edged past Mainz 05 with a 3-1 scoreline. The match, played at the Rhein-Neckar Arena, was a rollercoaster of emotions, with Hoffenheim securing a vital victory thanks to a stellar performance by their star striker, Kevin Volland.
The game began with both teams probing for weaknesses, but it was Mainz who took the lead in the 15th minute. A clinical counter-attack saw Jonathan Burkhard slot home from inside the box, putting the visitors ahead. Despite the early setback, Hoffenheim refused to panic and slowly turned up the heat. Their persistence paid off in the 35th minute when Volland capitalized on a defensive error to level the score.
The second half saw Hoffenheim take control. Kramarić, who had been quiet initially, exploded into life after the interval. In the 57th minute, he received a perfectly weighted pass from Volland and fired a powerful shot past Mainz goalkeeper Robin Zentner, putting Hoffenheim ahead for the first time. The goals kept flowing for the hosts as Volland completed his hat-trick in the 78th minute, slotting home from the penalty spot after Mainz defender Stefan Baumgart was penalized for handball.
Despite the two-goal deficit, Mainz refused to fold. A late goal by Anthony Modeste in the 87th minute gave them hope, but Hoffenheim held firm to secure the win. The game ended 3-1 in favor of the home side, who showed great character to overcome an early deficit.
Kramarić, who scored twice, was the standout performer, but the entire Hoffenheim team deserves credit for their resilience and teamwork. The victory sends a strong message ahead of their upcoming fixtures, with European qualification still within their grasp.
For Mainz, the loss is a setback, but they remain in the hunt in the race for a top-half finish. Despite the outcome, both teams can take pride in their performances and look ahead to the next challenge.