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Pre-match note ↓
Bundesliga · Matchday 3

1899 Hoffenheim

A. Hlozek 13', 67'

2 – 1

FT

 

HT 1–0

VfB Stuttgart

M. Mittelstadt 48'

Bundesliga

Matchday 3

1899 Hoffenheim2–1VfB Stuttgart

2.76

Expected goals

2.16

13′48′67′

Shot-by-shot xG is not available for this fixture, so the race is shown as full-time totals: 1H 2.76, VS 2.16.

1HVS· Prezero Arena, Sinsheim

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Pre-match note

Tactical Showdown: Hoffenheim's Fluidity vs. Stuttgart's Rigid Defense

As Hoffenheim welcomes Stuttgart to SNP Arena, the tactical narrative is set for an intriguing battle between fluid attacking play and a resolute defensive structure.

Hoffenheim has built a reputation for their dynamic attacking style, utilizing quick interchanges and positional rotations. Their midfield, often led by a creative playmaker, looks to exploit spaces left by opposing defenses. This match will see them challenge Stuttgart's organized backline, which has shown resilience but can be vulnerable when stretched.

Stuttgart's defensive unit is characterized by a disciplined approach, often employing a compact shape that aims to deny space in central areas. The key battle will be between Hoffenheim’s forwards, who thrive on fluid movement, and Stuttgart’s center-backs, who must remain alert to the unpredictable runs of their opponents. If Stuttgart can maintain their structure, they may frustrate Hoffenheim's attempts to break through.

The midfield duel will be critical. Hoffenheim’s ability to transition quickly from defense to attack could be pivotal, particularly if they can draw Stuttgart’s midfielders out of position. Stuttgart will rely on their midfielders to provide cover and support the defense while also looking to initiate counter-attacks through quick ball recovery. This dual responsibility places significant pressure on their midfield to perform.

Hoffenheim's wing play could also prove decisive. Their wide players are adept at stretching the opposition and creating overloads. Stuttgart’s full-backs will need to balance their defensive duties with the need to support their own attacks. A failure to track back could leave gaps for Hoffenheim to exploit, especially if they can get their wingers isolated one-on-one.

Set pieces may play a crucial role in this fixture. Hoffenheim has shown a tendency to capitalize on dead-ball situations, with their height and physicality providing a threat from corners and free-kicks. Stuttgart must remain vigilant during these moments, as conceding from set pieces could swing the momentum in Hoffenheim's favor.

As the match unfolds, the tactical adjustments made by both managers will be fascinating to observe. Hoffenheim may look to increase their pressing intensity to force errors from Stuttgart, while Stuttgart might adopt a more conservative approach, aiming to hit Hoffenheim on the break. The ability of both teams to adapt will be key to securing a positive result.

Fans can expect a contest rich in tactical nuances, with both sides bringing distinct philosophies to the pitch. As the final whistle approaches, the effectiveness of each team’s game plan will be on full display, setting the stage for an engaging Bundesliga encounter.

Fixture #1575160 · All upcoming previews · Match insights

Match report

1899 Hoffenheim 2-1 VfB Stuttgart

1899 Hoffenheim edged out VfB Stuttgart 2-1 at Prezero Arena in Bundesliga. Hlozek opened the scoring for 1899 Hoffenheim on 13', Mittelstadt levelled for VfB Stuttgart on 48' and Hlozek added his second on 67'.

Expected goals finished 1899 Hoffenheim 2.76, VfB Stuttgart 2.16. The scoreline is a fair reflection of who created more. VfB Stuttgart held 57.0% of the ball.

The numbers picked up more than the scoreline shows. 1899 Hoffenheim graded out for low-block fortress — 43.0% possession and 5 shots blocked. 1899 Hoffenheim graded out for counter-punch — 43.0% possession and 2.76 expected goals.

Fabian Bredlow came out of it with the best individual rating on the pitch, 8.9 for VfB Stuttgart across 90 minutes.

Assembled by TackleZone from this fixture’s match events, team statistics and player ratings. Figures are as reported by the competition feed; where a statistic was not reported, it is left out rather than shown as zero. Longer written analysis is published for selected matches.

Quick stats

43%Possession57%
20Shots16
2.76xG2.16

What the numbers say

4 reads

Low-Block Fortress

1899 Hoffenheim

1899 Hoffenheim handed over the ball and defended the box in numbers — 9 shots blocked or saved on 43.0% of possession.

Possession
43.0%
Shots blocked
5
Saves
4
Conceded
1

Counter-Punch

1899 Hoffenheim

1899 Hoffenheim were happy without the ball and still created more — 2.76 xG from 43.0% possession.

Possession
43.0%
Expected goals
2.76
Opponent xG
2.16

Box Occupation

VfB Stuttgart

VfB Stuttgart kept getting bodies into the area — 81% of their shots came from inside the box.

Shots in the box
13 of 16
Share
81%
xG per shot
0.14

Busy Goalkeeper

VfB Stuttgart

VfB Stuttgart leaned on their goalkeeper, who made 6 saves.

Saves
6
Faced xG
2.76
Conceded
2

Timeline

A. Hlozek — assist: B. Conte

⚽13'
🔄34'

Y. Spalt ↑ A. Stiller ↓

Adam Hložek · Penalty cancelled

📺45+4'
Half-time
⚽48'

M. Mittelstadt

P. Wimmer ↑ B. Conte ↓

🔄55'

Wouter Burger

Argument

🟨63'
🔄65'

B. El Khannouss ↑ C. Fuhrich ↓

🔄65'

D. Undav ↑ E. Demirovic ↓

A. Hlozek — assist: A. Daghim

⚽67'

K. Machida ↑ M. Rots ↓

🔄69'

V. Gendrey ↑ V. Coufal ↓

🔄69'
🔄81'

J. Leweling ↑ J. Vagnoman ↓

🔄81'

L. Sauer ↑ R. Hendriks ↓

A. Kramaric ↑ A. Hlozek ↓

🔄82'

F. Asllani ↑ T. Lemperle ↓

🔄83'

Match info

Kickoff 
VenuePrezero Arena, Sinsheim
RefereeSven Jablonski
CompetitionBundesliga
Season2026
RoundMatchday 3
StatusMatch Finished
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Match context

1899 Hoffenheim

#14

3 pts · 4 played

LWLL

VfB Stuttgart

#15

3 pts · 4 played

LLWL

1899 Hoffenheim

LLLL
  • @ OFI0–2 · 17 Sep
  • @ SC Paderborn 071–3 · 20 Sep
  • vs Borussia Dortmund2–3 · 5 Sep
  • @ 1. FC Köln2–3 · 29 Aug

VfB Stuttgart

WLWW
  • vs Viking3–1 · 9 Sep
  • vs Borussia Dortmund0–1 · 19 Sep
  • vs SpVgg Greuther Fürth5–0 · 1 Oct
  • vs 1. FC Heidenheim3–0 · 25 Sep