Leverkusen 2-2 Stuttgart (17 Aug 2024) Match Analysis

Bayer Leverkusen, who played more than half with 10 men, beat VfB Stuttgart 4-3 on penalties after scoring an equalizer in the closing stages to make it a 2-2 draw after 90 minutes and win the German Super Cup on Saturday.

Leverkusen, the domestic two-time winners of Leverkusen, who lost just once in all competitions last season, needed just 11 minutes to take the lead when Edmond Tapsoba charged at the far post and Victor Boniface fired the ball over the line.

Four minutes later, Stuttgart came back thanks to a shot from Enzo Millot in Germany’s first season opener without Bayern Munich in 13 years.

Xabi Alonso’s Leverkusen were reduced to 10 men in the 37th minute when Martin Terrier was sent off for a foul with the ball. Stuttgart quickly took control.

The visitors hit the woodwork three times and took the lead in the 63rd minute when substitute Deniz Undav turned home a pass from Frans Kraetzig seconds after coming on.

But Leverkusen’s never-give-up attitude, which saw them score many late goals last season on their way to an unbeaten league and German Cup run that earned them the nickname ‘Neverlusen’, was on full display again when Patrik Schick capitalised on a through ball from Alejandro Grimaldo to head home the equaliser two minutes from time.

They remained calm from the penalty spot and scored all four penalties, with Stuttgart’s Silas missing the decisive goal for his team.