Three points from impressive battling display

Match summary

As expected, the MHP Arena crowd was treated to an intense encounter right from kick-off. Sebastian Hoeneß‘s team enjoyed plenty of possession but struggled to make an impact in the final third. Leipzig posed a continuous threat via their high-pressing tactics and capitalised on a defensive mistake by VfB in the tenth minute to take the lead through Benjamin Sesko.

Openda hits the woodwork

Just eight minutes later VfB were fortunate not to concede again when Lois Openda’s long-range effort crashed off the left-hand post.

At the other end of the pitch Deniz Undav had a chance thwarted by Peter Gulacsi (25’), and although Hoeneß’s charges were subsequently on top they were unable to carve out any clear-cut openings.

Bruun Larsen and Woltemade turn the tables

VfB got off to the perfect start in the second half and deservedly equalised from a brilliant Jacob Bruun Larsen header (50’). Stuttgart increased the pressure in search of a winner and found it ten minutes later through Nick Woltemade.

Up to fifth

VfB were superb throughout the second half and, after Sesko (85’) and Openda (88’) were both sent off for the visitors, Enzo Millot missed a chance to make it 3-1 in stoppage time. It was ultimately of little consequence, though, as VfB clinched three vital and well-earned points to climb up to fifth in the table after Bundesliga Matchday 17.

Goals 



10th minute: Woltemade makes a mistake in VfB’s build-up play, leading to Xavi finding Sesko inside the penalty box, and his powerfully struck shot leaves Alex Nübel with no chance.

50th minute: Undav delivers an inch-perfect cross from the right into the box, where Bruun Larsen equalises with an unstoppable header.

60th minute: After Gulacsi saves Undav’s close-range effort, David Raum tries to clear the rebound to safety. Woltemade sticks his foot in the way, however, and the ball ricochets into the net.