Focus switched to next task

VfB had a clear goal going into Friday evening’s home game against Fortuna Düsseldorf under the floodlights in the Mercedes-Benz Arena. The target against F95 was the first victory of the season – an achievement they would be roared towards by the 54,410 spectators in the Mercedes-Benz Arena, cheering for the side in the shirts with the infamous hoop. As referee Robert Hartmann blew the final whistle shortly before 22:30 CEST, it was clear that VfB would not be keeping hold of all three points in Stuttgart.

Mario Gomez & Co. were unable to breach the opposition defensive line, as the visitors from Düsseldorf were unable to find a way past Ron-Robert Zieler and his team mates. Thus, at the end of the ninety minutes, each side had a point to show for their efforts. Duly disappointed, the VfB players exited the field of play – but not before taking the time to thank their fans for their unyielding support. The bulk of the supporters in the Cannstatter Kurve responded to the reaction of the team with encouragement and inspiring applause.

Next challenge on Wednesday in Leipzig

It was indeed acknowledgement of the fact that the side in the shirts with the infamous hoop successfully achieved the balancing act between attacking effort and defensive risk – as the visitors from Düsseldorf proved a consistent threat on the break. The fact that such counter-attacks never resulted in major openings for the guests was down to VfB’s solid defending and the extremely impressive Ron-Robert Zieler. The keeper was particularly valuable in dealing with Fortuna chances from set-pieces.

Although the goal of securing the first win of the season in opening matchday four was ultimately not achieved, the team are now required to quickly switch their thoughts to the next task at hand, in spite of their obvious disappointment. On Wednesday evening (20:30 CEST), Christian Gentner & Co. travel to RB Leipzig, with the hope of returning home with something to show for their efforts.