Chris Führich the key as Stuttgart dominate struggling Bochum
Stuttgart got the better of Bochum 2-0 on Saturday, Chris Führich converting the home side's dominance with a superb opener while Justin Diehl made an instant impact off the bench, sealing the victory for the hosts.
Goals: 1-0 Führich 53' (assist: Stergiou), 2-0 Justin Diehl 78' (assist: Rieder)
Stuttgart welcomed Bochum to the MHP Arena, with both teams looking to improve their positions in the Bundesliga table. The hosts, under Sebastian Hoeneß, were eager to bounce back from their recent 3-2 defeat against Eintracht Frankfurt. Bochum, meanwhile, came into the match still searching for their first win of the season, having gone winless in their opening ten league matches - a first in their Bundesliga history.
First-half stalemate
The first half was a tale of Stuttgart dominance met by Bochum's resolute defence. Chris Führich was at the heart of most of Stuttgart's attacking moves, constantly probing the Bochum backline. In the 17th minute, Jeff Chabot came agonisingly close to breaking the deadlock, his header from a Maximilian Mittelstädt free-kick rattling the crossbar. Despite controlling possession and creating several chances, Stuttgart couldn't find a way through Bochum's deep-lying defence before the break. The visitors, content to sit back and absorb pressure, offered little going forward but managed to keep the scores level at half-time.
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Führich breaks the deadlock
Stuttgart's persistence finally paid off in the 53rd minute when Führich broke the deadlock with a powerful strike. Receiving the ball wide on the left, the 26-year-old cut inside and unleashed a shot that flew past Patrick Drewes and in at the far post. The goal was a just reward for Stuttgart's dominance and Führich's influential performance. Bochum, forced to abandon their defensive approach, began to push forward in search of an equaliser. However, this opened up spaces for Stuttgart to exploit on the counter-attack.
Diehl seals the victory
As the match entered its final stages, Hoeneß made a tactical substitution that would prove decisive. Justin Diehl was brought on in the 77th minute, replacing the tireless Führich. The young substitute made an immediate impact, scoring with his first touch just 19 seconds after entering the field. Latching onto a through-ball from fellow substitute Fabian Rieder, Diehl calmly slotted past Drewes to double Stuttgart's lead and effectively seal the victory - with his first-ever Bundesliga goal. The goal showcased Stuttgart's strength in depth and Hoeneß's astute game management.
Tensions rise as Bochum seek comeback
The final stages of the match saw tensions rise as Bochum desperately sought a way back into the game. Enzo Millot and Philipp Hofmann both received yellow cards in the 71st and 72nd minutes respectively, reflecting the increasing frustration and physicality of the contest. Despite their efforts, Bochum struggled to create clear-cut chances against a well-organised Stuttgart defence. In the 90th minute, Matúš Bero was also shown a yellow card, capping off a disappointing day for the visitors.
Player of the Match: Chris Führich
Führich was undoubtedly the standout performer in Stuttgart's convincing victory. The winger was a constant threat throughout the match, creating numerous chances for his teammates and causing havoc in the Bochum defence. His goal in the 53rd minute was a moment of individual brilliance, breaking the deadlock and setting Stuttgart on the path to victory. Führich's influence extended beyond his goal, as he completed the most successful passes in the attacking third and won the most challenges for Stuttgart. His performance epitomised Stuttgart's dominant display and was crucial in securing the three points.
Bundesliga Match Facts
xGoals: Stuttgart 1.83 - Bochum 0.71
Fastest player: Josha Vagnoman (Stuttgart), 35.11 km/h
Lowest goal probability: 1-0 by Chris Führich (Stuttgart), 2.55 percent
Most pressed player: Enzo Millot (Stuttgart), 22 times under pressure
Pass efficiency: Chris Führich (Stuttgart), +3.18
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