VfB Stuttgart Wins DFB-Pokal Final

VfB Stuttgart secured the German Cup in Berlin with a 4-2 victory over Arminia Bielefeld, despite a late comeback from the underdogs. Stuttgart established an early lead with goals from Nick Woltemade, Enzo Millot, and Deniz Undav within the first 28 minutes. Millot added a second goal, seemingly sealing the win, but Bielefeld responded with a goal from Julian Kania and an own goal by Josha Vagnoman, making the final minutes tense for Stuttgart.
Maximilian Mittelstaedt expressed his overwhelming emotions after the win, while Undav described the feeling as indescribable. The victory grants Stuttgart a place in next season's Europa League, joining Freiburg.
Angelo Stiller played a crucial role for Stuttgart, setting up goals for Woltemade and Undav, showcasing his potential as a replacement for Toni Kroos. Bielefeld coach Michel Kniat acknowledged his team's disappointment but expressed pride in their season.
Stuttgart coach Sebastian Hoeness, who took charge when the club was struggling, has now led them to Champions League qualification and a German Cup title. Bielefeld, despite their underdog status, had an impressive run to the final, defeating several top-division teams, including Bayer Leverkusen in the semi-finals.
Bielefeld missed an early opportunity to score when Sarenren Bazee's shot hit the crossbar. Stuttgart capitalized on this, with Stiller assisting Woltemade for the opening goal. Millot added a second goal after Undav exploited a defensive error. Stiller then set up Undav for Stuttgart's third goal.
With Stuttgart comfortably ahead, Millot's second goal prompted celebrations. However, Kania's goal for Bielefeld and Vagnoman's own goal narrowed the gap, creating a nervy finish. Despite Bielefeld's late pressure, Stuttgart held on to win their fourth German Cup and their first since 1997.
Stuttgart's victory places them among the successful teams in the competition, with only Bayern Munich, Werder Bremen, Eintracht Frankfurt, Borussia Dortmund, and Schalke having won more German Cups.