VfB Stuttgart approaches the return leg of the Europa League Round of 32 with a comfortable three-goal lead. The German team dreams of advancing to the last 16, while Celtic Glasgow needs a spectacular victory to overturn the tie. The pre-match atmosphere has been heated by controversies surrounding the VAR system and the unsuccessful appeal by the Scots regarding the red card for Auston Trusty, which drew sharp criticism from manager Martin O'Neill.

VfB Stuttgart's Lead

The German team won the first leg by a three-goal margin and is the favorite to advance.

VAR Criticism

Manager Martin O'Neill sharply criticized the system after the suspension for Auston Trusty was upheld.

Stiller's Return

VfB Stuttgart's key midfielder, Angelo Stiller, is fully fit and will play in the return leg.

German side VfB Stuttgart faces a huge opportunity to advance to the next phase of the Europa League. After a convincing victory in the first leg, Sebastian Hoeneß's men must defend their three-goal advantage at home. The Stuttgart coach, despite the favorable result, warns his players against underestimating the opponent, emphasizing the fighting spirit of the Scottish team. Good news for the hosts is the return to full fitness of key midfielder Angelo Stiller, who is ready to play from the first minute. VfB Stuttgart is a three-time Bundesliga champion that has twice reached European cup finals in its history, including the UEFA Cup in 1989, where they lost to Napoli featuring Diego Maradona.The situation in the Celtic Glasgow camp is much more difficult. The team from the Scottish capital must win by at least three goals to force extra time. Preparations were disrupted by the rejection of the appeal regarding the red card for Auston Trusty. Manager Martin O'Neill did not hide his irritation at this decision, calling the video review process „nonsense” and claiming that this technology undermines the authority of on-field referees. Trusty's absence forces the coach to reshuffle the defensive formation ahead of one of the most important matches of the season. „Such a nonsense. VAR is becoming debilitating for referees, stripping them of decision-making in key moments.” — Martin O'NeillThe match in Stuttgart is generating immense media interest, especially in the context of the fight for points in the UEFA country ranking. Stuttgart is counting on solid defensive play and counter-attacks, which allowed them to dominate the first match in Glasgow. Meanwhile, Celtic promises an offensive approach from the first minute, pinning their hopes on set pieces and the physical dominance for which British football is famous. The winner of this tie will join the elite group of the tournament's sixteen best teams. Celtic Glasgow is the first British club to win the European Cup in 1967, defeating Inter Milan in the final, which remains the most significant achievement in the history of Scottish club football to this day.In the shadow of the football emotions in Stuttgart, German media also noted the defeat of handball team MT Melsungen in the European League, which ended their impressive unbeaten streak in international competition. The reason for the weaker performance was an injury crisis in the team from Hesse.

Mentioned People

  • Martin O'Neill — Manager of Celtic Glasgow, former Republic of Ireland international and decorated coach.
  • Sebastian Hoeneß — Coach of VfB Stuttgart, under whose leadership the team has made significant progress in the Bundesliga.
  • Angelo Stiller — Young Stuttgart midfielder, a key element in Hoeneß's tactical setup.
  • Auston Trusty — American defender for Celtic Glasgow, whose red card caused considerable controversy.