VfB Stuttgart delivered a statement performance by overwhelming Bayer Leverkusen 4-1 in their Bundesliga clash, asserting control from the opening minutes and never allowing the hosts to settle.

The visitors struck early and dictated the tempo throughout the first half, exploiting space in midfield and capitalizing on defensive lapses. Leverkusen struggled to cope with Stuttgart’s pace, movement, and pressing as the match quickly slipped away from them on Saturday, January 10.

Stuttgart seize control early

Stuttgart took the lead inside the opening minutes when Jamie Leweling broke free after a perfectly timed through ball and finished calmly past the goalkeeper. The early goal set the tone, with Stuttgart pressing aggressively and winning second balls across the pitch.

Their dominance was rewarded again before the half-hour mark after a foul inside the box led to a penalty, which was converted with ease. Leverkusen showed brief signs of life but failed to generate sustained pressure as Stuttgart remained composed and disciplined.

Leweling added his second just before halftime following another incisive move, and deep into stoppage time, Stuttgart struck again to complete a devastating four-goal first half that left the home side reeling.

Leverkusen response falls short

Leverkusen emerged with greater urgency after the break, pushing higher up the field and committing more players forward in search of a response. Their efforts were rewarded with a penalty conversion midway through the second half, offering a glimmer of hope.

However, Stuttgart managed the remainder of the match with confidence, limiting Leverkusen’s chances and seeing out the contest without serious danger. The emphatic victory lifts Stuttgart into fifth place, strengthening their push toward the UEFA Champions League spots, while Leverkusen slip down the standings.

Elsewhere in the round, Freiburg edged Hamburger SV 2-1, Union Berlin and Mainz shared a 2-2 draw, and Cologne were held to a 2-2 stalemate by Heidenheim.