Algeria forward Mohamed Amoura marked his return to scoring in 2026 with an early goal for Wolfsburg, but his side were beaten 3-1 away at Mainz in the Bundesliga.
The striker, making his first impact of the new year, gave Wolfsburg the perfect start by converting a penalty in the third minute.
Amoura, deployed on the left flank, calmly finished from the spot after a well-worked attacking move down the right involving Pejcinovic and Kumbedi.
The goal was Amoura’s seventh of the season for the German club and briefly put Wolfsburg in control of the contest.
Mainz, however, gradually grew into the game and went on to overturn the early deficit as Wolfsburg failed to build on their bright opening.
Amoura remained a threat in transition and came close to doubling his tally midway through the first half.
In the 10th minute, he led a counter-attack and attempted to finish from distance, but his effort drifted wide of the target.
Despite his lively start, Wolfsburg were unable to maintain their early momentum. The hosts increased the pressure as the match progressed, forcing Wolfsburg deeper and limiting their attacking outlets.
Amoura was eventually withdrawn in the 66th minute as his side sought to regain control of the game.
After his substitution, Wolfsburg’s defensive resistance collapsed. Mainz scored three times to secure the victory, turning the match decisively in their favour and leaving Wolfsburg to reflect on another missed opportunity away from home.
The defeat overshadowed Amoura’s individual milestone, which nonetheless marked a positive step forward after a difficult start to the year.
The Algerian had gone without a goal in 2026 prior to this match, both at club level and during his involvement with the national team at the Africa Cup of Nations.
His strike in Mainz offered a reminder of his attacking quality and his importance to Wolfsburg’s forward line, even if it was not enough to change the outcome of the match.
Wolfsburg were left frustrated by their inability to protect an early lead and to respond after falling behind.
For Amoura, the goal may serve as a turning point as he looks to build momentum for the remainder of the season, while Wolfsburg will be concerned by the manner of their defeat after such a promising start.
MAGNIFIQUE MADJER DE MOHAMED AMINE AMOURA 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥pic.twitter.com/Y66rn4BHtf
— Chebli Ishaq (@IshaqChebli) January 24, 2026
