The highly anticipated UEFA Champions League clash between Real Madrid and VfB Stuttgart on September 17, 2024, brought football enthusiasts to the Santiago Bernabéu for an exciting showdown. Here, we break down the lineups, key players, and tactical setups for this marquee encounter.
Real Madrid Lineup and Tactics
Real Madrid’s starting eleven showcased their blend of experience and youth, aiming to dominate from the outset. Managed by Carlo Ancelotti, the team set up in a fluid 4-2-3-1 formation:
Goalkeeper: Thibaut Courtois
Defenders: Dani Carvajal, Éder Militão, Antonio Rüdiger, Ferland Mendy
Midfielders: Federico Valverde, Aurélien Tchouaméni, Jude Bellingham
Forwards: Rodrygo, Kylian Mbappé, Vinícius Jr.
Notably, key midfielders like Eduardo Camavinga and Dani Ceballos missed the match due to injuries. Jude Bellingham’s return to the starting lineup added creativity and stability in midfield, while Kylian Mbappé led the attack, supported by the dynamic Rodrygo and Vinícius Jr. on the wings.
Substitutes included Luka Modrić and emerging talents like Endrick and Arda Güler, emphasizing Madrid’s depth and readiness to adapt during the match.
VfB Stuttgart Lineup and Tactics
Stuttgart entered the contest as underdogs but brought their signature energy and tactical discipline under manager Sebastian Hoeness. They adopted a 4-2-2-2 formation, which emphasized a compact midfield and fast transitions:
Goalkeeper: Alexander Nübel
Defenders: Josha Vagnoman, Anrie Chase, Chabot, Mittelstädt
Midfielders: Atakan Karazor, Angelo Stiller
Attacking Midfielders: Rieder, Jamie Leweling
Forwards: Ermedin Demirović, Deniz Undav
Stuttgart missed key defensive players such as Dan-Axel Zagadou and Ameen Al-Dakhil, but Ermedin Demirović, a prolific striker, was expected to spearhead their attack.
Tactical Analysis
Real Madrid’s Strategy:
Real Madrid’s formation allowed them to dominate possession and build attacks from the back. Valverde and Tchouaméni provided a defensive shield, enabling fullbacks Carvajal and Mendy to join the attack.
Bellingham’s role as a playmaker linked the midfield and the front line, ensuring quick transitions and creative opportunities for Mbappé and Vinícius.
Stuttgart’s Approach:
Stuttgart focused on compact defending, looking to disrupt Madrid’s rhythm. They relied on quick counterattacks, utilizing the pace of Leweling and the finishing ability of Demirović.
The 4-2-2-2 setup allowed them to congest central areas, limiting Madrid’s ability to exploit spaces.
Match Highlights and Conclusion
Real Madrid’s superior quality and tactical flexibility were decisive, resulting in a 3-1 victory. Goals from Mbappé, Rüdiger, and young talent Endrick sealed the win for the hosts, while Stuttgart managed a spirited consolation through Undav. Madrid’s fluid attacking play and ability to adapt to Stuttgart’s counters underscored their dominance.
This fixture not only highlighted Real Madrid’s pursuit of another Champions League title but also showcased Stuttgart’s resilience and potential for growth in Europe’s elite competition. Fans left the Bernabéu entertained by a match that lived up to its billing.
FAQs
What was the starting lineup for Real Madrid against VfB Stuttgart?
Real Madrid employed a 4-2-3-1 formation for this Champions League fixture, showcasing their blend of youth and experience. Key players included Thibaut Courtois in goal, a defensive line of Dani Carvajal, Éder Militão, Antonio Rüdiger, and Ferland Mendy, with Federico Valverde and Aurélien Tchouaméni anchoring the midfield. Jude Bellingham took the attacking midfield role, supported by wingers Vinícius Jr. and Rodrygo, while Kylian Mbappé spearheaded the attack.
What was VfB Stuttgart’s starting lineup?
VfB Stuttgart adopted a 4-2-2-2 formation under Sebastian Hoeness. The starting XI featured Alexander Nübel as the goalkeeper, with a backline of Josha Vagnoman, Anrie Chase, Chabot, and Mittelstädt. Atakan Karazor and Angelo Stiller anchored the midfield, with Rieder and Jamie Leweling providing attacking support behind strikers Ermedin Demirović and Deniz Undav.
Were there any significant absentees in the match?
Both teams dealt with injuries that impacted their lineups:
Real Madrid missed Eduardo Camavinga, Dani Ceballos, and Brahim Díaz due to injuries. However, Jude Bellingham’s return was a significant boost.
Stuttgart faced absences in their defense, including Dan-Axel Zagadou and Ameen Al-Dakhil. Despite this, Japanese talent Anrie Chase stepped up admirably.
How did Real Madrid’s tactics influence the game?
Real Madrid’s 4-2-3-1 formation allowed them to dominate possession and create numerous scoring opportunities. Valverde and Tchouaméni provided stability in midfield, while Bellingham’s vision and creativity enabled the front three of Rodrygo, Vinícius, and Mbappé to thrive. The attacking fluidity and high pressing effectively neutralized Stuttgart’s counters.
How did Stuttgart approach the game tactically?
Stuttgart relied on a compact 4-2-2-2 setup, focusing on closing down spaces in midfield and transitioning quickly into attack. The speed of Jamie Leweling and the finishing prowess of Demirović posed occasional threats to Real Madrid’s defense. Despite their underdog status, Stuttgart displayed resilience and tactical discipline throughout the match.
In Summary
The Real Madrid vs. VfB Stuttgart matchup was a thrilling example of Champions League football, blending tactical acumen with individual brilliance. Real Madrid’s depth and attacking prowess underscored their dominance, while Stuttgart’s spirited performance added a competitive edge. This fixture was not only a display of star-studded lineups but also an affirmation of the importance of adaptability and resilience in football.
As both teams continue their respective campaigns, this match serves as a benchmark for their aspirations in Europe’s elite competition. Fans and analysts alike eagerly await the next chapter in their journeys.
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