In Wolfsburg, VfB Stuttgart managed to salvage a point under difficult circumstances against an opponent who seemed to want little but received a lot. It was a match reminiscent of a boxing fight.
All things considered, one has to be relatively satisfied with the draw at the VW club. Twice, VfB was caught off guard by Wolfsburg’s extreme speed after midfield turnovers, particularly showcased by Wolfsburg’s new signing, Mohammed Amoura. Despite 18 shots from Stuttgart, they didn’t capitalize enough but could rely on the quality of players like Enzo Millot—who converted a weak penalty on the rebound—and Deniz Undav—who remained alert in front of goal until the second-to-last minute. On the other hand, much more was possible in this game. Had they found more answers against a Wolfsburg side that played like Osnabrück, Kiel, or Wehen in the second division, Wolfsburg would have had a hard time explaining how they could have won without Undav’s late equalizer.
In the end, Stuttgart managed a narrow victory, as the match felt more like a point gained than two lost. Moreover, no one could seriously wish for a team to win when its captain simulates an injury, resulting in his opponent’s red card, without showing any remorse later on. Not only did the match seem like a boxing bout in its assessment, but also in its play. Maxi Arnold himself should have been sent off after already leading with his arm in a first-half challenge with Enzo Millot. Not to mention the aforementioned Amoura, who, despite his speed, was outpaced by Jamie Leweling and responded by attempting a tackle from behind with an extended leg and studs showing, narrowly missing the VfB forward. The erratic Sven Jablonski initially showed red, which his assistant in the VAR booth deemed a clear mistake. The egregious error couldn’t be overturned due to the inconsistent application of VAR, and the on-field assistants were fooled by Arnold’s theatrics—or perhaps didn’t want to embarrass their boss. It’s hard to say which is worse.
Quality Despite Avoidable Mistakes
Stuttgart didn’t necessarily drop points due to the second abysmal refereeing performance in five league matches. The turnovers leading to the goals were as avoidable as the carnival in our five-meter box against Mainz. Still, it’s hard to fault the team too much after this match. Yes, Wolfsburg defended deep, pressed aggressively, and thought
but still, Stuttgart played the same way they did against Borussia Dortmund’s more porous defense, which had led to success. It was only ever a matter of centimeters or an extra leg in the way, without having to fear much from the hosts. Perhaps, with equal numbers on the pitch, they would have secured all three points. In the end, the relief of snatching a point and not suffering a letdown after a week full of highlights outweighs the disappointment.
The late equalizer should also boost the team’s confidence in their own quality ahead of their second Champions League game against the unpredictable Sparta Prague. Stuttgart has analyzed their opponent, but it was much clearer what to expect from a team like Real Madrid. They shouldn’t underestimate the Czech double winners, who suffered their first league loss on Friday. However, Stuttgart has no reason to fear them any more than they should fear Hoffenheim, who squandered a 3–0 lead against Bremen at home on Sunday. It remains to be seen if former Stuttgart coach Pellegrino Matarazzo will return to the Neckarstadion in his current role.
Perhaps Atakan Karazor will also be back, should VfB secure another victory off the pitch and successfully appeal the captain’s suspension. But that’s not to be expected from the DFB, which seems keen on protecting the referee, Sven Jablonski, who at least owned up to his mistake, perhaps unnecessarily. As honorable as his admission was, the Bundesliga has had a serious problem with refereeing, even among those representing the DFB internationally. This draw won’t derail Stuttgart, but for the DFB, this match was an embarrassment.
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