SC Paderborn 07 pushed VfB Stuttgart all the way but fell to a narrow 0-1 defeat in the DFB Pokal at the Home Deluxe Arena on 29 October 2026, with the Bundesliga side surviving a tense cup tie.

Stuttgart controlled much of the ball and created the better chances, but Paderborn’s energy and organisation kept the match in the balance until the final whistle. One moment of quality in the second half proved to be the difference.

Stuttgart edge ahead

The first half was a study in patience versus pressure. Stuttgart circulated the ball confidently and looked to pull Paderborn out of shape, while the hosts defended compactly and threatened on the counter. Paderborn came close in the 18th minute when a low effort struck the post, a moment that lifted the home crowd.

Stuttgart’s breakthrough arrived in the 63rd minute. Ermedin Demirović found space at the near post and converted a sharp low cross, giving the visitors the lead. It was a goal that rewarded Stuttgart’s persistence and the quality of their movement in the box.

Paderborn push for an equaliser

Paderborn responded with courage. They increased the tempo, pushed their full-backs higher and began to deliver more crosses into the box. Stuttgart’s goalkeeper Alexander Nübel was called into action twice in the final 15 minutes, saving a header and then reacting quickly to smother a loose ball.

Stuttgart managed the closing stages with experience, slowing the game down and keeping possession in wide areas. Paderborn threw bodies forward in stoppage time, but the visitors defended their box with composure to secure their place in the next round.

Key moments

• 18’ — Paderborn hit the post with a low effort from outside the box.
• 63’ — Ermedin Demirović scores the only goal of the game.
• 76’ — Alexander Nübel saves a Paderborn header.
• 84’ — Nübel reacts quickly to deny a follow-up effort.
• 90+2’ — Stuttgart clear a late corner to seal the win.

Tactical story

Stuttgart’s possession game was built on patient circulation and quick switches of play. They looked to isolate their wide forwards and create crossing opportunities, and that approach eventually produced the decisive goal. Paderborn defended in a mid-block, trying to deny central access and force Stuttgart wide.

Paderborn’s best moments came in transition. Their midfield pressed aggressively when Stuttgart’s defenders took heavy touches, and their forwards made runs into the channels. The hosts lacked only the final finish, while Stuttgart’s individual quality in the box made the difference.

Standout performers

Ermedin Demirović was the match-winner with a striker’s finish and a strong all-round display. Alexander Nübel produced the saves that protected the lead. For Paderborn, the central defenders and goalkeeper deserved credit for keeping the tie alive until the end.

What it means

Stuttgart avoid a potential cup upset and move into the next round, but they will know they were pushed hard. Paderborn exit with their reputation enhanced and can turn their attention back to league commitments. In a knockout competition, the result is all that matters, and Stuttgart found a way to get it.