Stuttgart demolished Bayer Leverkusen 3-1 at home to claim a dominant Bundesliga victory, with early goals setting the tone for a commanding performance at MHPArena.
VfB Stuttgart entered this May encounter level on points with Leverkusen in the battle for European qualification. Both teams carried identical records with 58 points from 32 matches. Stuttgart sought to bounce back from a mixed run of results. Leverkusen arrived in better form, winning two of their last three games.
The hosts stunned their visitors with a lightning-quick start. Aleix García opened the scoring in the opening minute, catching Leverkusen's defense completely unprepared. The early breakthrough energized Stuttgart's attacking play.
Stuttgart doubled their advantage just four minutes later. Ermedin Demirović fired past the goalkeeper to make it 2-0. The away side found themselves in deep trouble before the match reached double figures.
Leverkusen struggled to find any rhythm in the opening stages. Stuttgart controlled possession and created numerous chances. The visitors managed only one shot on target in the first half.
Stuttgart added a third goal from the penalty spot in the 45th minute. Maximilian Mittelstädt stepped up and converted to extend the lead to 3-0. Stuttgart's clinical finishing had Leverkusen in serious danger.
The second half saw Leverkusen push for a response. Stuttgart's defense had to work harder to maintain their advantage. However, the damage was already done by halftime.
Deniz Undav sealed Stuttgart's victory in the 58th minute with a fourth goal. The striker finished clinically to make the scoreline 3-1. Leverkusen pulled one back but could not mount a meaningful comeback.
Stuttgart dominated the shot count with 20 attempts compared to Leverkusen's six. The hosts also registered nine shots on target to the visitors' five. Stuttgart's expected goals (xG) of 2.78 reflected their superior chance creation.
Angelo Stiller controlled Stuttgart's midfield with a rating of 8.2. Alexander Nübel made four crucial saves in goal. Demirović led the attacking efforts with three shots on target.
Possession was evenly split at 49-51 percent in Stuttgart's favor. Stuttgart completed 85 percent of their passes while Leverkusen managed 81 percent accuracy. The home side's efficiency made the difference.
This victory moves Stuttgart level with Leverkusen on 58 points. Both teams remain in the hunt for Champions League qualification. Stuttgart's clinical display suggests they possess the firepower to challenge for a top-four finish.
