Bundesliga: Stuttgart Stuns RB Leipzig, Ends Their European Hopes

RB Leipzig's European ambitions were ended by a shocking 3-2 defeat to VfB Stuttgart on the final day of the 2024/25 season.

RB Leipzig's hopes of European football were dashed in a stunning 3-2 loss to VfB Stuttgart at home. This defeat marked the first time Leipzig missed out on European qualification since their promotion to the Bundesliga.

Despite a promising start, Leipzig struggled to capitalize on their chances. Kevin Kampl's early shot was blocked, setting the tone for a frustrating match that ultimately cost Leipzig a European spot.

Xavi Simons broke the deadlock with a stylish back-heeled finish, temporarily boosting Leipzig's European hopes. However, Deniz Undav equalized 15 minutes later with a powerful header, dealing a significant blow to Leipzig's chances.

The situation worsened when news arrived that Mainz had taken the lead in their match, further diminishing Leipzig's prospects of securing a European spot.

Defeat on the final matchday 😞 We finish the 2024/25 season in 7th place.

⏱️ FT | 2-3 | #RBLVfB pic.twitter.com/5ls10cjdW9

— RB Leipzig English (@RBLeipzig_EN) May 17, 2025

Leipzig regained the lead before halftime when Ridle Baku capitalized on a rebound, giving them renewed hope. However, their fate took a dramatic turn in the second half when Stuttgart equalized, with Nick Woltemade scoring a crucial header.

The momentum shifted twice in seconds, as Leipzig's fortunes were tied to Mainz's match against Leverkusen. Unfortunately for Leipzig, Stuttgart's equalizer coincided with Leverkusen leveling the score in Mainz.

Leipzig's brief window of hope was shut when Ermedin Demirović scored, dashing their chances of a European spot. Demirović's composed finish sealed the win for Stuttgart and dealt a significant blow to Leipzig's aspirations.

Loïs Openda's late effort was disallowed for a push in the box, snuffing out Leipzig's final glimmer of hope. The defeat confirmed Leipzig's absence from European football for the first time since their Bundesliga promotion.

Stuttgart held on for a 3-2 win, condemning Leipzig to seventh place - their lowest finish in the Bundesliga. Meanwhile, Stuttgart's victory sets them up for a potential Europa League spot if they win the DFB-Pokal final next weekend.