The match got off to a lively start with Stuttgart taking the lead in the 13th minute. The visitors went ahead through a well-placed goal by Arminia Demirovic, who capitalized on a defensive lapse from the hosts. However, Red Star responded quickly, leveling the score just 10 minutes later. A sharp finish from Katompa Mvumpa, following a perfectly executed counterattack, brought the hosts back into the game.
Red Star’s confidence grew from there, and by the time the halftime whistle blew, they were in control. In the 38th minute, Rade Krunic put the home side ahead with a composed strike that took advantage of Stuttgart's defensive disarray. As the teams headed into the break, it seemed clear that the momentum had swung firmly in Red Star's favor.
The second half saw Stuttgart struggle to contain Red Star’s relentless attack. The hosts exposed the visitors' vulnerabilities on the break, and the floodgates opened. Substitute Nemanja Radonjic was in ruthless form, scoring twice in quick succession to make it 4-1, while Aleksandar Ivanic added a fifth to seal the comprehensive victory.
The scoreline reflected Red Star’s dominance in all aspects of the game. While their expected goals (xG) total of 1.45 suggested they had a solid chance of winning, their efficiency in front of goal was remarkable, outscoring their xG by a wide margin. In contrast, Stuttgart’s 0.86 xG was far below what would have been required to challenge Red Star's attacking force.
The 5-1 scoreline marked Stuttgart’s joint-heaviest defeat in Champions League history, equaling their 4-0 loss to Barcelona in 2010. For Red Star, it was a statement win, not only in terms of the result but also in their ability to dismantle a team of Stuttgart's caliber with such clinical precision.
This resounding victory will no doubt boost Red Star's confidence as they look to push for qualification from the group stage. Meanwhile, Stuttgart will need to regroup after this humiliating defeat, which leaves them with much to ponder as they head into the next round of fixtures.
For Red Star Belgrade, this victory will be remembered as a defining moment in their Champions League campaign, as they continue their pursuit of European glory.
إرسال تعليق