Bayer Leverkusen, VfB Stuttgart Move Closer to Bundesliga Survival

Stuttgart Comeback Stuns Leverkusen

VfB Stuttgart and Bayer Leverkusen both took crucial steps toward securing their Bundesliga survival with hard-fought victories on Saturday.

Stuttgart staged a stunning second-half comeback to overcome Leverkusen 3-2 at the BayArena. The visitors found themselves trailing 2-0 at the break, but goals from Atakan Karazor, Serhou Guirassy, and Borna Sosa secured a vital win.

Leverkusen's Early Dominance

Leverkusen started the match stronger and deservedly took the lead through Moussa Diaby's 18th-minute strike. Robert Andrich doubled their advantage just before the interval, giving them a comfortable cushion at the break.

Stuttgart's Resurgence

However, Stuttgart came out with renewed determination after the restart. Karazor pulled one back early in the second half, and Guirassy equalized before the hour mark. Sosa then completed the turnaround with a stunning free-kick in the 75th minute.

Leverkusen's Survival Hopes Boosted

The victory moves Leverkusen up to 11th in the standings, four points clear of the relegation zone with only two games remaining. Xabi Alonso's side will face Borussia Dortmund in their next match, followed by a potentially decisive clash with Hoffenheim on the final day.

After the match, Alonso praised his team's resilience: "I'm incredibly proud of the players. They showed great character and determination to come back from a losing position."

Stuttgart Close to Safety

Stuttgart's win takes them up to 14th place, six points above the drop zone. With two games left to play, they face Cologne at home before traveling to Arminia Bielefeld on the final matchday.

Stuttgart coach Pellegrino Matarazzo was delighted with his team's performance: "We showed great spirit and belief today. We knew we needed a win to stay up, and we fought until the end. I am very proud of the players and the fans."

Crucial Matches Ahead

Both Leverkusen and Stuttgart will be hoping to secure their Bundesliga status in their remaining matches. Leverkusen have a tough task ahead, but Stuttgart appears to have a more favorable run-in.

The Bundesliga relegation battle is set to go down to the wire, with several teams still in danger of dropping down to the second tier.