Woltemade absence no obstacle as Stuttgart beat Gladbach

VfB Stuttgart responded well to the loss of star striker Nick Woltemade, claiming a 1-0 win over Borussia Mönchengladbach.

Following the remarkable €90 million sale of Nick Woltemade to Newcastle United, VfB Stuttgart were left with a big gap up front ahead of Saturday’s home clash with Borussia Mönchengladbach.

It was generally a tight affair, with chances at a premium – especially in the first half.

After the break, Gladbach should have opened the scoring in the 51st minute when Kevin Stöger found himself one-on-one with Alexander Nübel, but he blasted his effort wide.

As the second half progressed, it seemed neither side would break the deadlock – until second-half substitute Chema Andrés popped up for the hosts. 

The new signing from Real Madrid met a precise cross from Jamie Leweling and headed the ball into the net in the 79th minute to give Stuttgart a late lead.

Gladbach were unable to respond, and Stuttgart held on to claim their first Bundesliga win of the season. Borussia, meanwhile, remain on just one point following their opening draw with Hamburger SV.