Stuttgart – VfB Stuttgart delivered a resounding response to their Europa League disappointment, dismantling FC Augsburg 5-2 in a dominant Bundesliga performance on Sunday. Leading the charge was forward Deniz Undav, who continues to be in scintillating form, scoring twice and orchestrating much of the attacking play. The victory lifts Stuttgart to third in the Bundesliga table, firmly staking their claim for a Champions League spot.
Just three days after their elimination from the Europa League at the hands of FC Porto, Sebastian Hoeneß’s side showcased a remarkable resilience and attacking prowess. “We wanted to display a reaction. We make the game unnecessarily exciting, but it was a deserved win,” Undav told DAZN after the match. The German international has been a revelation for Stuttgart this season, and his current scoring rate is attracting significant attention.
Undav opened the scoring in the 12th minute, setting the tone for a first half where Stuttgart completely overwhelmed Augsburg. Tiago Tomás extended the lead in the 29th minute, and Nikolas Nartey added a third just two minutes later, quickly establishing a comfortable cushion for the visitors. A penalty awarded to Stuttgart was later overturned after a VAR review in the 45th minute, but the damage had already been done.
Augsburg managed to pull one back through Fabian Rieder in the 57th minute, briefly threatening to make a game of it. However, Undav responded immediately, restoring Stuttgart’s three-goal advantage with a clinical finish in the 58th minute. The VfB continued to press, delighting their travelling supporters in the sold-out Augsburg Arena.
Anton Kade scored a consolation goal for Augsburg in the 71st minute, but Stuttgart had the final say. Ermedin Demirovic, a former Augsburg player, capped off the victory with a goal in the 83rd minute, adding a touch of poignancy to the scoreline.
Hoeneß made five changes to the starting lineup following the Europa League defeat, prioritizing freshness and energy. This tactical adjustment clearly paid dividends, as Stuttgart’s intensity and attacking fluidity proved too much for Augsburg to handle. Augsburg, meanwhile, have now lost three consecutive matches against top teams – following defeats to RB Leipzig and Borussia Dortmund – and struggled to contain Stuttgart’s relentless attacks.
The VfB were dominant throughout the match, consistently finding space and exploiting Augsburg’s defensive vulnerabilities. Chris Führich, in particular, caused problems for the Augsburg defense with his dribbling ability, repeatedly creating opportunities for Undav and his fellow attackers. The Stuttgart offense, comprised of Undav, Führich, Tomás, and Nartey, proved simply too much for the Augsburg backline to handle.
“Deniz is in outstanding form. I don’t think Julian [Nagelsmann, Germany national team coach] seriously considered leaving him out,” Hoeneß remarked to DAZN before kickoff. Undav’s current goal-scoring form is certainly worthy of international attention, and he is quickly becoming a key player for both club and country.
Angelo Stiller also impressed in midfield with his expansive range of passing and tireless operate rate. The 24-year-old could be in contention for a late call-up to the German national team, especially given that Bayern Munich’s Aleksandar Pavlović is reportedly doubtful for the upcoming internationals due to a muscle injury. Confirmation from the German Football Association (DFB) was still pending as of Sunday evening.
Stuttgart were without Jamie Leweling, who was unavailable due to injury and had already been called up to the national team. However, his absence was barely felt, as the attacking quartet of Undav, Führich, Tomás, and Nartey seamlessly filled the void.
The win for Stuttgart not only boosts their Champions League aspirations but also provides a significant morale boost after the disappointment of their Europa League exit. They now turn their attention back to the Bundesliga, where they will look to maintain their impressive form and solidify their position among the league’s elite.
What’s Next: VfB Stuttgart will travel to face Wolfsburg on April 6th in their next Bundesliga fixture. Kickoff is scheduled for 3:30 PM CET (9:30 AM EDT). Fans can follow the match live on Sky Sport in Germany and via international broadcasters.
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