VfB Stuttgart are heading to the DFB-Pokal final and they have Badredine Bouanani to thank for it.
The Algerian international produced a moment of brilliance just seconds after coming on, delivering a decisive assist in the 119th minute to seal a dramatic victory over SC Freiburg.
Freiburg Strike First, Stuttgart Respond
For much of the contest, Stuttgart were chasing the game.
Freiburg took the lead in the first half, controlling the tempo and putting the hosts under sustained pressure. But Stuttgart responded after the break, finding an equaliser in the 70th minute to swing momentum back in their favour.
From there, it became a tense battle one where chances were scarce and nerves took over.
Extra Time Tension, Then a Twist
With neither side able to find a winner in normal time, the match drifted into extra time.
As the clock ticked down and penalties loomed, Stuttgart made a bold late call introducing Bouanani in the 118th minute.
It changed everything.
119th-Minute Moment of Magic
Just a minute after stepping onto the pitch, Bouanani delivered.
A perfectly weighted pass split the Freiburg defence and found Tiago Tomás, who kept his composure to fire home the winning goal.
Game over.
Impact Beyond Minutes Played
Bouanani’s contribution lasted barely seconds but it defined the match.
His composure, vision, and timing under pressure highlighted exactly why squad depth is crucial in knockout football. One moment, one decision, one touch—that’s all it took.
Final Awaits a Heavyweight Clash
Stuttgart now turn their attention to the final, where they will face Bayern Munich on May 23.
It’s a clash of ambition versus pedigree and Stuttgart arrive with momentum and belief.
A Star Moment, A Bigger Opportunity
For Bouanani, this was more than just an assist it was a statement.
And with the final now within reach, Stuttgart will be hoping that moment of magic is just the beginning.
