7M - Stuttgart 3-1 Leverkusen: Sebastian Hoeness's side seize control of Champions League race with impressive comeback

VfB Stuttgart delivered a dominant offensive performance at a sold-out MHP Arena on May 9, 2026, defeating Bayer Leverkusen 3-1. The result leaves the Swabians' hopes of UEFA Champions League qualification in their own hands heading into the final matchday of the Bundesliga campaign.

The match began with high drama as Aleix Garcia gave Leverkusen the lead within just 43 seconds, capitalising on a pass from Christian Kofane. However, Stuttgart responded swiftly through Ermedin Demirovic, who equalised in the 5th minute following a neat exchange with Nikolas Nartey. Just before the interval, Maximilian Mittelstadt put the hosts ahead by converting a 'Panenka' penalty after a VAR review. Deniz Undav sealed the victory in the 58th minute, slotting home his 19th goal of the season from a Jamie Leweling cross. Despite second-half substitutions from Leverkusen, Stuttgart remained resolute to claim a vital three points.