DFB: “Then it dawned on me that the ref was wearing a Bayern jersey” - Mainz player launches scathing attack

Bundesliga: Mainz v Bayern: Mainz 05’s Silvan Widmer has accused referee Tobias Stieler of showing bias towards Bayern Munich after a controversial match on Saturday

The sides played out a thrilling 3-1 contest at the Mewa Arena, with the visitors running out eventual winners.

However, the match was overshadowed by a number of contentious refereeing decisions, with Widmer particularly aggrieved by a challenge by Bayern’s Leon Goretzka on Mainz’s Leandro Barreiro in the first half.

The Swiss defender claims Goretzka should have been sent off – he was instead shown a yellow card for the incident – and believes Stieler favoured Bayern throughout the match.

“The game was decided by the referee,” said Widmer.

“I can’t understand why he didn’t send off Goretzka. And then there were all the other decisions that went in Bayern’s favour. It was clear to me that the referee was wearing a Bayern jersey.”

DFB opens investigation into Widmer’s accusation

Mainz have filed a complaint with the DFB over Stieler’s performance, and the German FA has opened an investigation into the matter.

Stieler has 10 days to respond to the allegations before the DFB makes a decision on whether or not to take any further action.

If the DFB finds that Stieler did indeed show bias towards Bayern, he could face a lengthy suspension from officiating.

Bayern Munich have not commented on the allegations

Bayern have not yet commented on Widmer’s allegations, but they are likely to defend Stieler and insist that the referee did not show any bias towards them.

The German champions have a strong relationship with the DFB, and they will be confident that the FA will find in their favor.

If the DFB does find that Stieler showed bias towards Bayern, it will be a major embarrassment for the German FA. It will also raise questions about the integrity of the Bundesliga and the ability of referees to remain impartial.