Here’s a quick rundown of what went down:
- Stuttgart came back from an early 1-0 deficit.
- Josha Vagnoman celebrated his birthday with a goal and an assist.
- The second half saw a barrage of goals from Stuttgart.
- A controversial VAR review delayed one of the goals.
- Stuttgart’s dominant performance leaves them with a strong chance to qualify.
Early Shock, Swift Response
The game began with a setback for the home side as Łukasz Łakomy fired Bern into an early lead. The Stuttgart defense seemed caught off guard as Łakomy’s shot found the back of the net. The Bern players dedicated their goal celebration to their teammate Meschack Elia, who tragically lost his son recently. A classy touch amid the high-stakes competition.
However, Stuttgart didn’t let the early goal faze them. They quickly found their rhythm, with Emedin Demirović creating a couple of opportunities, including a shot that hit the side netting. In the 26th minute, Stuttgart pulled one back via a brilliant one-two between Atakan Karazor and Vagnoman. Vagnoman, on his 24th birthday, capped the move with a cool finish.
Second-Half Onslaught
The second half was all about Stuttgart. They came out firing, with Demirovic involved in all of the first chances after the break. The second goal came after a fine run by the former Berner, Fabian Rieder, who cut the ball back for Enzo Millot to score. There was a VAR review, because the assistant referee had raised his flag indicating the ball had gone out, but the goal was allowed. The stadium erupted again when Chris Führich curled in a beauty from 20 yards, making it 3-1 in the 61st minute. The Young Boys looked shell shocked.
Vagnoman’s Birthday Bash
Josha Vagnoman sealed his birthday in style, grabbing his second goal to make it 4-1. The birthday boy capped off a fantastic performance by finishing off a flowing team move. As the Swiss champions fell apart, Yannick Keitel scored from 25 yards in the 76th minute to complete the scoring. It was the first goal for the 24-year old in the Stuttgart jersey.
Looking Ahead
This comprehensive victory has lifted Stuttgart to second in the group, giving them a fighting chance of qualifying for the next stage of the Champions League. With two matches left to play, they know that at least a win is needed to ensure they go through. Stuttgart’s next game is against Slovan Bratislava on January 21st, followed by a final group game against Paris St. Germain. Based on this performance, they’ll be confident of securing their spot in the last 16.
Key Moments:
- 6th minute: Łukasz Łakomy opens the scoring for Young Boys.
- 26th minute: Josha Vagnoman equalizes for Stuttgart.
- 53rd minute: Enzo Millot puts Stuttgart ahead.
- 61st minute: Chris Führich scores a stunning curler.
- 67th minute: Vagnoman adds his second of the night.
- 76th minute: Yannik Keitel scores Stuttgart’s fifth.
This match was not just a win; it was a statement. Stuttgart showed they are a force to be reckoned with in the Champions League.