Borussia Dortmund vs VfB Stuttgart Match Recap - Nov 22, 2025

A Thrilling 3-3 Draw: Borussia Dortmund and VfB Stuttgart Share the Spoils in a Bundesliga Classic

Deniz Undav's hat-trick steals the show as VfB Stuttgart and Borussia Dortmund battle to a dramatic 3-3 draw at Signal Iduna Park.

Dortmund's recent form has been a rollercoaster, and this match encapsulated their struggles and resilience. After a disappointing 1-4 loss to Manchester City, they needed a strong response. The team showed flashes of brilliance, particularly from Maximilian Beier, who scored the opener, but defensive lapses allowed Stuttgart to capitalize on their mistakes. The inability to maintain leads has become a recurring theme for Dortmund, as they have now dropped points in crucial moments.

Stuttgart's Deniz Undav emerged as the standout performer, scoring three times and showcasing his clinical finishing ability. His first two goals came in quick succession, turning the tide after Dortmund had taken the lead. Undav's performance is a testament to his growing influence in the league, having already netted multiple goals this season. His ability to find space and exploit defensive weaknesses was pivotal in Stuttgart's attacking strategy.

Dortmund's midfield struggled to control the game, with Emre Can's penalty miss in the first half highlighting their inconsistency. Despite dominating possession with 54% and outshooting Stuttgart 7-3, they failed to convert chances into goals effectively. The team's pass accuracy of 81% reflects their attempts to build play, but it also underscores their lack of cutting edge in the final third. This match further emphasizes the need for Dortmund to find a reliable scoring option alongside Guirassy.

Stuttgart's tactical approach proved effective, relying on quick transitions and exploiting Dortmund's defensive frailties. Their ability to maintain composure under pressure allowed them to recover from being behind twice in the match. The visitors' solid defensive structure, led by Jeff Chabot, limited Dortmund's clear-cut chances despite their overall shot count. Stuttgart's resilience is evident in their recent performances, having won seven of their last ten matches before this draw.

The contrasting styles of both teams were evident throughout the match. Dortmund typically thrives on possession-based football but struggled to break down Stuttgart's organized defense. Their average of 56% possession over recent games has not translated into consistent goal-scoring opportunities, raising questions about their tactical execution. On the other hand, Stuttgart's ability to capitalize on counter-attacks has been a hallmark of their success this season.

Dortmund's defensive lapses were costly, particularly in the closing stages when they conceded a late equalizer from Undav. This result leaves them with only one win in their last five matches across all competitions, highlighting a worrying trend as they aim to stay competitive in the Bundesliga title race. The pressure is mounting on coach Niko Kovač to address these issues before their next fixture against Bayer Leverkusen.

Stuttgart's performance solidifies their position among the league's top contenders. With this draw, they remain level on points with Dortmund, showcasing their potential to challenge for European qualification this season. The contributions from players like Bilal El Khannouss and Tiago Tomás have been crucial in maintaining their momentum, and Undav's hat-trick only adds to their attacking depth.

The implications of this match extend beyond just points on the table; it serves as a reminder of the unpredictability of Bundesliga football. Both teams will need to regroup quickly as they prepare for their upcoming fixtures. For Dortmund, finding consistency will be key if they hope to reclaim their place among Germany's elite. For Stuttgart, this draw reinforces their belief that they can compete with anyone in the league.

As both teams look ahead, the lessons learned from this thrilling encounter will shape their strategies moving forward. Dortmund must address their defensive vulnerabilities while harnessing their attacking talent more effectively. Stuttgart will aim to build on this performance, using Undav's form as a catalyst for continued success in the league.

In summary, this match was not just about the scoreline; it was a reflection of two teams at different stages of development. Dortmund must find a way to regain their confidence and form, while Stuttgart can take pride in their resilience and attacking prowess. The Bundesliga continues to deliver excitement and drama, and this clash between Borussia Dortmund and VfB Stuttgart was no exception.