Hertha Berlin beats Mainz 2-0 in Bundesliga

FRANKFURT, Germany (AP) - Hertha Berlin beat Mainz 2-0 on Sunday to consolidate third place in the Bundesliga ahead of the winter break and improve its chances of qualifying for the Champions League.

Vedad Ibisevic set up both goals and had one denied in a close offside call. He wasted a good late chance as he tried to score with his heel.

Vladimir Darida drove home from the edge of the penalty area after a pass from Ibisevic in the 34th minute. Salomon Kalou secured the win in the 54th, also after a pass from Ibisevic.

With 32 points, Berlin has played its second best half of the season and has five points more than fourth-place Bayer Leverkusen. Berlin was fighting against relegation last season.

Mainz lost after seven matches without a defeat.