Ermedin Demirović inspired VfB Stuttgart to a 2-0 win over FC St. Pauli in the Bundesliga, scoring one goal and providing an assist. The new captain led from the front at the MHP Arena, ending St. Pauli’s unbeaten start to the season. Bilal El Khannouss also netted his first goal for the club, sealing a convincing home victory.
Stuttgart vs St. Pauli: Bundesliga Match Overview
On Matchday 4, VfB Stuttgart entered the clash under pressure after a poor start to the season, collecting only three points in their first three games. Meanwhile, St. Pauli arrived full of confidence, riding their best-ever Bundesliga opening with seven points.
The match began at high intensity. Stuttgart thought they had struck early when Demirović headed in from a set piece, but the goal was ruled out for offside. Despite their dominance, the Swabians were frustrated by St. Pauli goalkeeper Nikola Vasilj, who pulled off a superb penalty save to deny Angelo Stiller in the 25th minute.
Demirović Breaks the Deadlock
Persistence finally paid off for Stuttgart just before halftime. Jamie Leweling slipped a clever pass to Demirović, who dribbled past three defenders before chipping the ball over Vasilj for a stunning opener in the 43rd minute.
The strike not only gave Stuttgart the lead but also highlighted why Demirović was chosen as the new captain—a player capable of stepping up in decisive moments.
El Khannouss Secures First Goal for Stuttgart
The hosts wasted little time after the break, doubling their advantage in the 50th minute. Maximilian Mittelstädt recovered possession and found Leweling on the left, who delivered a low cross. Demirović smartly laid the ball off for Bilal El Khannouss, who calmly slotted into the far corner for his first Bundesliga goal.
St. Pauli nearly responded through Louis Oppie, whose shot rattled the crossbar, but Stuttgart remained in control. Another Demirović effort was disallowed for offside, while Alexander Nübel made a crucial one-on-one save against Dapo Afolayan to preserve the clean sheet.
Player of the Match: Ermedin Demirović
On his debut as Stuttgart captain, Demirović produced a complete performance. His brilliant solo goal and selfless assist showcased both his technical skill and leadership qualities. Constantly causing problems for the St. Pauli defense, he was rightfully named Player of the Match with 46% of fan votes.
Key Match Facts and Statistics
- xGoals (Expected Goals): Stuttgart 2.43 – St. Pauli 1.13
- Fastest Player: Andréas Hountondji (St. Pauli), 35.4 km/h
- Lowest Goal Probability: Demirović’s opener at just 8.8% chance
- Most Pressed Player: Danel Sinani (St. Pauli), 19 times under pressure
- Pass Efficiency Leader: Maximilian Mittelstädt (Stuttgart), +3.14
Fantasy Bundesliga fans were also rewarded, with El Khannouss (321 points), Leweling (263 points), and Demirović (243 points) emerging as the top contributors.
What’s Next for Stuttgart and St. Pauli?
This victory lifts Stuttgart’s spirits after a disappointing start to the campaign. With Demirović in inspired form, the Swabians will look to build momentum in their upcoming Bundesliga fixtures. St. Pauli, on the other hand, will aim to bounce back quickly to maintain their strong start to the season.
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