Mainz 05: The Bundesliga Underdogs

1. FSV Mainz 05, commonly known as Mainz 05, was formed on March 16th, 1905 (source). The club was established by a group of local football enthusiasts from the city of Mainz - an affirmation of their passion for the beautiful game.

2. In its initial years, Mainz experienced modest beginnings like most clubs at that time. They had limited resources but were rich in determination and resilience - qualities which helped them grow steadily despite numerous adversities.

3. Among the early notable players for Mainz is Herbert Pohlmann who played with the team during the late forties to early fifties era (source).

The ascent to glory for Mainz began in earnest post World War II when they first tasted success at a national level.

1. The year 2004 marked a significant milestone in the history of this proud club – they gained promotion into Bundesliga, Germany's top-tier league (source).

2. Jürgen Klopp is undoubtedly one of their legendary figures both as a player and manager (source). Klopp, who later went on to enjoy enormous success with Borussia Dortmund and Liverpool, played a pivotal role in driving Mainz into the Bundesliga during his managerial stint.

3. Another iconic moment for the club was their Europa League journey during the 2016-17 season when they reached the group stages (source).

Mainz 05 has had several rivalries over years, but none more significant than their feud with Eintracht Frankfurt which is often referred to as the Rhein-Main-Derby (source).

1. This rivalry started due to geographical proximity but grew intense owing to various competitive encounters between both clubs.

2. Derby games are an integral part of football culture in Germany and contribute significantly towards defining team identities & fan cultures - Mainz's rivalry with Frankfurt is no different.

Mainz plays its home matches at Opel Arena which was opened in July 2011 (source).

1. The state-of-the-art stadium has a seating capacity of approximately 34,000 spectators making it one of Bundesliga’s finest stadiums.

2. Over years, Mainz has made this stadium a fortress turning many games in their favor given passionate support from their fans.

The fanatic supporters of Mainz play a critical role in creating an exhilarating atmosphere in every game.

1. The fans of Mainz are known for their passionate and unwavering support, with several fan clubs across the city actively supporting their team both at home & away games (source).

2. Mainz 05 has a unique tradition of "Carnival Fasching" where players, officials and fans celebrate together underlining the sense of community within the club (source).

Top 10 Moments in Club's History

• Gaining promotion into Bundesliga in 2004
• Jürgen Klopp’s appointment as coach marking a successful era
• Qualifying for Europa League group stages during the 2016-17 season
• Opening of Opel Arena - their iconic stadium
• Victory over Bayern Munich - one of world football’s most successful teams (3:2) in March 2016
• Historic win against Eintracht Frankfurt (4:2) after trailing by two goals in November, 2011.
• Rousing comeback victory against VfB Stuttgart from three goals down to win it 5:4.
• Finishing top half on their debut Bundesliga season securing a place in UEFA Cup
• Defeating Borussia Dortmund twice during the same Bundesliga campaign (2008–09)
• Achieving highest-ever finish – fifth place during the year 2010-11