VfB Stuttgart – Borussia Dortmund: Stuttgart Stun Şahin’s Dortmund (5-1)

VfB Stuttgart took the initiative early on here, as their man-oriented pressing and incisive attacking play earned them a first half lead. Nuri Şahin’s adjustments were ultimately not enough to stop Borussia Dortmund suffering in the second half either, as Stuttgart racked up five goals in a dominant display.

Tactical analysis and match report by Josh Manley.

Last time these sides met, VfB Stuttgart secured a win to seal their participation in European football this season, with the goal coming from Serhou Guirassy who later moved to Borussia Dortmund. Stuttgart’s European adventure began this week in the Santiago Bernabéu, where they gave a valiant effort but were ultimately overpowered by Real Madrid’s superstars.

Sebastian Hoeneß’s side started in a 4-4-2 shape here, with Josha Vagnoman, Anthony Rouault, Jeff Chabot, and Maximilian Mittelstädt in the backline. Enzo Millot and Jamie Leweling started on the wings, while Atakan Karazor and Angelo Stiller partnered in central midfield. Up front there was the duo of Deniz Undav and Ermedin Demirović.

Last season’s Champions League finalists, now led by Nuri Şahin, lined up in a 4-2-3-1 shape for this game, with a back four of Julian Ryerson, former Stuttgart captain Waldemar Anton, Niklas Süle, and Nico Schlotterbeck. Felix Nmecha and Pascal Groß were in central midfield, with Julian Brandt at number . . .