Did Stuttgart Hold Off Bielefeld's Late Surge in the German Cup?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Stuttgart showcased their quality throughout the match.
- Millot was a standout performer, scoring two goals.
- Bielefeld demonstrated resilience despite the loss.
- Stuttgart will participate in the UEFA Europa League next season.
- Both teams had memorable journeys this season.
Berlin, May 25 (NationPress) VfB Stuttgart triumphed in the German Cup for the fourth occasion by overcoming third-tier champions Arminia Bielefeld with a score of 4-2 in the final held here on Saturday.
Despite Bielefeld's impressive journey to the final, which included eliminating four teams from the Bundesliga, Stuttgart demonstrated their top-flight caliber when it truly counted.
The underdogs nearly took an early lead after merely 12 minutes when Noah Sarenren Bazee struck the crossbar from close range, as reported by Xinhua.
Stuttgart retaliated quickly, with Nick Woltemade breaking the deadlock just three minutes later through a composed finish following a clever pass from Angelo Stiller.
A defensive blunder soon after allowed Deniz Undav to break through and selflessly assist Enzo Millot, extending the lead to 2-0.
When Undav converted Stiller's second assist of the night, pushing the score to 3-0 before halftime, victory appeared certain.
Millot added his second midway through the second half, capitalizing on a faulty pass from Louis Oppie to curl in a fourth.
However, Bielefeld refused to surrender without a struggle. Substitute Julian Kania narrowed the gap in the 82nd minute with a precise finish, and a subsequent own goal by Josha Vagnoman three minutes later reignited hopes of an improbable comeback.
Nonetheless, goalkeeper Alexander Nubel thwarted Joel Felix's attempt for a third goal, allowing Stuttgart to maintain their lead and secure the win.
"It's challenging to articulate. I am absolutely thrilled with this victory," stated Stuttgart coach Sebastian Hoeness.
"In a match like this, anything can transpire. Ultimately, we had to dig deep once more. Immense credit goes to my players and to Bielefeld, a team that simply refuses to give up. It has been a long time since Stuttgart claimed a trophy, making this moment even more special."
Stuttgart will participate in the upcoming season's UEFA Europa League. For Bielefeld, the final capped an unforgettable season that included promotion and a historic Cup journey.
"Our opponent exploited our errors ruthlessly in a span of ten minutes. Yet, I am immensely proud of my team. Although disappointment reigns at the moment, we have enjoyed a fantastic Cup campaign and an excellent season," expressed Arminia Bielefeld coach Michel Kniat.