Match Report: Real Madrid vs VfB Stuttgart
Real Madrid will host VfB Stuttgart at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium on Tuesday, September 17, 2024, at 21:00 (Spain). This match marks the opening of the 2024-2025 UEFA Champions League league phase for both teams.
Match Preview
Real Madrid will host VfB Stuttgart at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium on Tuesday, September 17, 2024, at 21:00 (Spain). This match marks the opening of the 2024-2025 UEFA Champions League league phase for both teams.
As the reigning Champions League titleholders, Real Madrid enters the competition as the team to beat. VfB Stuttgart, returning to the continental stage after nearly 15 years, will be eager to make a strong impression against the European giants.
Team Form and Performance
Real Madrid
Real Madrid secured the Champions League trophy last season, solidifying their status as one of Europe’s elite clubs. With a squad filled with experienced internationals, Los Merengues have been in strong form domestically and internationally. Their recent performances have showcased their attacking prowess and solid defense, making them a formidable opponent at home.
VfB Stuttgart
VfB Stuttgart returns to the Champions League for the first time since 2010. Under the guidance of coach Sebastian Hoeness, Stuttgart had an impressive domestic campaign last season, finishing second in the Bundesliga and surpassing expectations by finishing above Bayern Munich. Despite the departure of key players over the summer, they have invested in new talent to bolster their squad for this European challenge.
Key Players and Injuries
Real Madrid
No significant injuries have been reported for Real Madrid ahead of this fixture. The team is expected to field a strong lineup featuring their star players who were instrumental in last season’s success.
VfB Stuttgart
Stuttgart faced a summer of changes with the departure of prolific striker Serhou Guirassy and defenders Waldemar Anton and Hiroki Ito. However, they have strengthened their squad by making Germany forward Deniz Undav's move from Brighton permanent and signing striker Ermedin Demirovic. These new signings are expected to play crucial roles in Stuttgart’s attacking strategies.
Head-to-Head Statistics
Encounters between Real Madrid and VfB Stuttgart have been rare in European competitions, making historical data limited. This match presents a fresh challenge for both sides, with Stuttgart looking to establish themselves on the European stage and Real Madrid aiming to maintain their dominance.
Betting Insights
The current betting odds favor Real Madrid to win the match:
- Real Madrid: 1.25
- Draw: 6.0
- VfB Stuttgart: 9.5
With Real Madrid's strong track record in the Champions League and home advantage, they are the recommended choice for bettors. Stuttgart's recent form and squad changes suggest they may face challenges against the defending champions. However, the unpredictability of football means that bettors should consider all possibilities, including the potential for Stuttgart to leverage their underdog status and surprise the hosts.
