Demirović strikes late as Stuttgart draw with Hoffenheim in dramatic finale

Stuttgart faced Hoffenheim in the final fixture of Bundesliga Matchday 6 and it was not short in drama as Ermedin Demirović bagged an injury-time goal to level matters at 1-1.

A heavily fancied Stuttgart came into tonight’s game against an injury stricken Hoffenheim who stunned the masses with a confident and attack-minded first half that could’ve yielded more goals. Adam Hložek rounded Nübel but Mittelstädt was at hand to clear off the goalline. 

A fine string of saves from Oliver Baumann proved pivotal in helping TSG stay in the fight. Firstly a fingertip save to deny Mittelstädt from range followed by a strong hand to redirect Karazor’s header from six yards out. Still there would be a sting in the tail a minute before the break. Kramarić’s through ball was not dealt with by Mittelstädt who fumbled possession into the path of Gendrey to race in and hammer home in style. 

Half-time introductions of Führich and Vagnoman enabled Hoeneß’ side to switch to their preferred 4-2-3-1 set up, but still VfB struggled to get to grips with their Sinsheim opponents. Matarazzo also looked to his bench bringing on the youthful duo of Tohumcu and Max Moerstedt. Yet there seemed to be no way through for the Swabians.

Fabian Rieder brought greater intensity and speed to the hosts which almost created a perfect assist for Undav. The German striker swivelled but could only blaze over the bar on an off night for the usual goalscorer. Frustrations continued to grow late into injury time as Stuttgart huffed and puffed for an equaliser. 

Late drama would eventually ensue as the hosts received a penalty for an Akpoguma handball spotted with some VAR consultation. Although Baumann saved the initial spot-kick, Demirović followed up the rebound to tap into an open net. Perhaps a moment of calm arrived at the final whistle – both Baumann and Demirović embracing and sharing a chuckle after their last minute suspense.