Stuttgart delivered a commanding performance on Sunday, defeating Wolfsburg 4-0 at home and drawing level on points with Hoffenheim in the race for a Champions League spot. The victory brings Stuttgart to 46 points, tying them with Hoffenheim for third and fourth place in the Bundesliga standings.
Deniz Undav opened the scoring for Stuttgart in the 21st minute, followed by a brace from Jamie Leweling in the 30th and 42nd minutes. Nikolas Nartey added a late goal in added time, securing a comprehensive win for the hosts.
The result intensifies the competition for Champions League qualification, with RB Leipzig and Bayer Leverkusen also vying for the coveted positions. Leipzig faces Hamburg on Sunday evening, while Leverkusen will play a rescheduled match against an as-yet-unspecified opponent on Wednesday.
Wolfsburg, meanwhile, continues to struggle, falling to 17th place in the Bundesliga table. The team has not secured a victory in seven consecutive matches, raising concerns about their potential relegation. The club’s manager, Daniel Bauer, who took over in November, is facing increasing scrutiny, with reports suggesting his position is under threat. Bauer has only secured three wins in 14 matches since assuming the role.
Stuttgart’s dominance was evident from the start, with Chris Führich proving a constant threat on the left wing. His early shot forced a save from Wolfsburg goalkeeper Kamil Grabara, and he played a key role in the opening goal, delivering a cross that ultimately led to Undav’s finish. Leweling’s two goals further cemented Stuttgart’s control, demonstrating their attacking prowess.
The defeat for Wolfsburg marks a significant setback in their season, leaving them three points from safety. The team’s inability to mount a challenge against Stuttgart highlights their current struggles and raises questions about their prospects for avoiding relegation.
The match was played in front of 57,500 spectators, who witnessed a dominant display from the home side. Stuttgart’s victory strengthens their position as a serious contender for a Champions League berth, while Wolfsburg faces a mounting crisis as they battle to remain in the Bundesliga.