VfB Stuttgart secured an impressive 4-2 victory over Bayer Leverkusen at the BayArena on Saturday, punishing the hosts’ defensive lapses with clinical finishing in their Bundesliga encounter.
Stuttgart made a flying start, taking the lead in the 14th minute through Ermedin Demirović, who converted a left-footed effort after an initial save.
Jamie Leweling doubled the visitors’ advantage eight minutes later, finishing from close range following a scramble during a corner-kick situation.
Leverkusen responded in the 28th minute when Patrik Schick headed home from Aleix García’s corner to reduce the deficit to 2-1 before the break.
The hosts dominated possession and continued to threaten, but struggled to turn their territorial advantage into goals.
Stuttgart extended their lead six minutes into the second half, with Bilal El Khannouss finishing after being set up by Chris Führich.
Demirović then completed his brace in the 65th minute, converting a pass from Deniz Undav following a swift counter-attack to make it 4-1.
Leverkusen continued pushing forward and pulled one back in the 79th minute through Ibrahim Maza, who headed home Miguel Gutiérrez’s cross.
However, the hosts could not find another goal as Stuttgart held on to claim all three points.
Despite enjoying 63 per cent possession and registering 24 attempts on goal against Stuttgart’s 15, Leverkusen struggled with their finishing.
The visitors, meanwhile, made better use of their opportunities, recording five big chances compared to the hosts’ two.
Stuttgart goalkeeper Dennis Seimen also played an important role in the victory, making six saves to frustrate Leverkusen’s attackers.
Defender Jeff Chabot was equally impressive, recording 16 clearances as the visitors maintained their defensive discipline under pressure.
Maza was Leverkusen’s standout performer despite the defeat, scoring once and producing an energetic display in midfield.
El Khannouss also impressed for Stuttgart with a goal and an influential all-round performance, while Demirović’s brace proved decisive.
