VfB Stuttgart Falls 0:2 to AS Roma, Jeopardizing Europa League Progress

VfB Stuttgart suffered a 0:2 defeat against AS Roma in their 2026 UEFA Europa League group stage match, significantly undermining their chances for direct qualification to the tournament's Round of 16. This loss leaves Stuttgart needing to secure four points from their remaining two group fixtures to preserve hopes of progressing.

The match featured Niccolò Pisilli as the decisive player, scoring both goals—first in the 40th minute after a defensive error from Stuttgart, and later in stoppage time (90+3) to seal Roma's victory. Stuttgart showed a promising start but were unable to breaching Roma's well-organized defense. Despite having opportunities, notably through striker Deniz Undav who missed two critical chances shortly after halftime, Stuttgart could not convert their dominance into goals.

Coach Sebastian Hoeneß expressed frustration following the game, stating, "We must face ourselves. In the end, you have to score the goals; the chances were there." He also acknowledged AS Roma's quality ahead of the match, recognizing them as one of the Europa League's best sides. Stuttgart's offensive issues were compounded by the absence of key midfielder Angelo Stiller, sidelined with groin problems, forcing lineup adjustments including the inclusion of young Chema Andrés.

The loss marks Stuttgart's first defeat in 2026 after a strong Bundesliga start, where the team earned seven points from three matches. The missed opportunities by Undav continue a pattern of inefficiency in front of goal, having similarly failed to capitalize in prior Bundesliga games against Frankfurt and Union Berlin.

With only one matchday left, Stuttgart's path to a top-eight placement in the league phase seems nearly impossible, and the team may have to contend with the play-offs to continue their European campaign.