UEFA Champions League 2024: Real Madrid vs VfB Stuttgart (September 17, 2024) – Match Preview
The UEFA Champions League group stage kicks off on September 17, 2024, with a highly anticipated clash between defending champions Real Madrid and Bundesliga runners-up VfB Stuttgart at the Santiago Bernabéu. This fixture marks Stuttgart’s first appearance in the Champions League in over a decade, while Real Madrid is looking to start their campaign for a record-extending 16th title.
Stuttgart’s Return to Europe
VfB Stuttgart makes a return to the Champions League for the first time since the 2009/10 season. Last season, they finished second in the Bundesliga under coach Sebastian Hoeneß, marking an impressive turnaround for the club. Stuttgart enters the match on the back of strong performances, including a 3-1 win over Borussia Mönchengladbach in their last Bundesliga game .
Although Stuttgart has several injuries, including Frans Kratzig and Nikolas Nartey, they will be determined to challenge Real Madrid. Stuttgart’s attacking duo of Deniz Undav and Ermedin Demirovic will be key if they are to cause an upset.
Real Madrid’s Dominance and Squad Updates
Real Madrid, the most successful team in Champions League history, enters this match as the overwhelming favorite. Under Carlo Ancelotti, they have continued to assert their dominance in Europe, most recently winning the 2024 UEFA Super Cup. Madrid’s form has been strong domestically as well, with a 2-0 victory over Real Sociedad in their most recent La Liga match .
Madrid will be missing some key players due to injuries, including Brahim Diaz, Dani Ceballos, and Eduardo Camavinga . However, new star signing Kylian Mbappé is expected to play a pivotal role, alongside Vinícius Jr. and Rodrygo in attack. Midfielders Jude Bellingham and Aurelien Tchouameni, who were rested in recent games, are likely to return.
Head-to-Head and Match Expectations
This will be the first time Real Madrid and VfB Stuttgart face each other in a competitive fixture, adding extra excitement to the match. Real Madrid will look to take control with their star-studded lineup, but Stuttgart is expected to bring a high level of competitiveness, especially with their recent strong form .
Given Madrid’s firepower and Stuttgart’s resilience, the match promises to be a thrilling encounter with plenty of attacking play on both sides. Stuttgart’s main challenge will be containing Madrid’s pace and creativity in the final third, while also capitalizing on counter-attacking opportunities .
Conclusion
As Real Madrid begins their quest for a 16th Champions League title, VfB Stuttgart stands in their way in what should be an exciting group-stage opener. With both teams in good form and eager to prove themselves on Europe’s biggest stage, this match is set to deliver high drama at the Santiago Bernabéu.


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