VfB Stuttgart Triumphs in the DFB-Pokal Finals Against Arminia Bielefeld
Party victory celebrated late into the night: VfB wins Cup over Arminia-Heroes in thrilling affair
Berlin - VfB Stuttgart emerged victorious in the DFB-Pokal finals against Arminia Bielefeld, securing a 3-2 victory in a fiercely competitive match. National player Angelo Stiller spearheaded the Swabians, who celebrated on the pitch following their first cup triumph in nearly three decades.
"I'm completely drained. The emotions are overwhelming," stated VfB professional Maximilian Mittelstädt. "The feeling is indescribable," added teammate Deniz Undav, narrating the extraordinary moment with the fans. Coach Sebastian Hoeneß was still basking in the pride of his father Dieter's proud embrace before Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier awarded the coveted golden trophy.
A Marked Class Difference
Stuttgart showcased a marked class difference against the cup sensation Arminia Bielefeld, dominating the game almost at will. Stuttgart took a substantial 3-0 lead in the first half with goals from Nick Woltemade, Enzo Millot, and Undav. Millot added another goal in the second half, elevating the lead to 4-0.
However, despite being significantly outplayed, Bielefeld added a novelty to their defeat. Julian Kania scored a consolation goal for Bielefeld, the first ever goal scored by a third division team in a DFB-Pokal final. Kania's goal briefly sparked a revival, but VfB managed to withstand the pressure, eventually securing a 4-2 victory.
Respectful Salute from the Defeated Opponents
While VfB celebrated the engraving of their name on the trophy, the Bielefeld fans also bid their players a final farewell for their extraordinary run to the final. Woltemade, the first-time national team nominee, extended his congratulations to the Bielefeld team on their performance and the whole season. "I think that's how it should be," he said.
Europa League Awaits VfB Stuttgart
VfB's turbulent season culminated with the big happy ending, netting their first title since 2007. Despite finishing ninth in the Bundesliga, VfB can look forward to electrifying Europa League nights in the upcoming season. The triumph crowns the development under coach Sebastian Hoeneß, whose guidance helped steer VfB away from relegation two years ago and to the fourth cup victory after 1954, 1958, and 1997.
A City Vibrating with Anticipation
Fans had anticipation in the air since Friday, with VfB coach Hoeneß describing the cup atmosphere as "the city is vibrating." The likes of former national coach Joachim Löw, who won the cup in 1997, stepped in as a morale booster for the fans. The festivities reached a climax when the team, inspired by the supporters' song about the "wild south," took to the pitch, with newcomer Woltemade setting the tone with the opening goal. VfB went on to secure an insurmountable 4-0 lead, maintaining their unbeaten record in their last five DFB-Pokal matches against Arminia Bielefeld.
Stuttgart's dominance extended beyond the DFB-Pokal, showcasing potential in European leagues, particularly the Champions League, with their impressive class difference and strategic play. Despite suffering a 4-2 defeat in the final, Arminia Bielefeld's third division player, Julian Kania, made history by scoring the first ever goal by a third division team in a DFB-Pokal final, demonstrating their spirited performance throughout the season.
