German side, VfB Stuttgart secured a comfortable 3-0 away victory over Slovan Bratislava in the second round of the UEFA Champions League on Wednesday, with Deniz Undav, an own goal by Sandro Cruz and a late header from Ermedin Demirović sealing the win.
Stuttgart dominated proceedings at the Tehelné pole Stadium, controlling possession and creating numerous scoring opportunities against their Slovak opponents.
Undav opened the scoring in the 29th minute after receiving a well-timed pass from Angelo Stiller before finishing with his left foot to give the visitors a deserved lead.
Stuttgart maintained their attacking pressure after the break, although Slovan attempted to fight their way back into the contest.
The hosts created opportunities but struggled to trouble goalkeeper Fabian Bredlow with their efforts.
The visitors doubled their advantage in the 65th minute when Slovan defender Sandro Cruz inadvertently turned a low delivery into his own net, leaving the home side with a difficult task.
Stuttgart completed the victory in stoppage time as Lorenz Assignon delivered a cross into the box for Demirović, who headed home to make it 3-0.
Despite suffering defeat, Slovan had moments of promise, particularly in the second half, when they attempted to put Stuttgart under pressure.
However, their lack of accuracy in front of goal undermined their efforts.
Goalkeeper Dominik Takáč was among Slovan’s busiest players, making six saves to prevent a heavier defeat.
Attacker Tigran Barseghyan also contributed to the hosts’ attacking efforts, registering four shots and creating four key passes.
Stuttgart, meanwhile, demonstrated greater efficiency in possession and attack, finishing with eight shots on target compared with Slovan’s one.
The visitors also recorded 64 per cent possession and created five big chances against their opponents’ one.
Defender Jeff Chabot delivered an outstanding performance, helping Stuttgart keep a clean sheet with 10 clearances and three blocked shots.
He also won eight duels and completed 86 passes.
Chabot’s defensive contribution earned him the highest player rating of the match, while Undav and Stiller also impressed with their contributions to Stuttgart’s victory.
