Stuttgart striker Deniz Undav delivered a stunning individual performance, netting a second-half hat-trick to secure a dramatic 3-3 draw against Borussia Dortmund on Saturday. The result keeps the two sides locked on points in the congested race for European qualification.
Facing a daunting 2-0 deficit at halftime, Stuttgart’s prospects looked bleak. However, Undav ignited the comeback just minutes after the restart, showcasing his poacher’s instinct with an improvised finish. He leveled the score from close range later in the half, setting up a frantic finale.
Dortmund thought they had snatched all three points when Karim Adeyemi scored in the 90th minute, but Undav had the final say. In stoppage time, the forward expertly turned his marker and fired a precise shot into the corner, completing his treble and capping a remarkable personal display.
The result underscores Undav’s critical importance to Stuttgart this season. With the summer departure of key striker Nick Woltemade, the attacking burden has fallen squarely on his shoulders. After overcoming an early-season knee injury, the 29-year-old has hit a rich vein of form, scoring six goals in his last three appearances.
For Dortmund, the draw represents a missed opportunity and adds to a growing sense of frustration. The club’s annual general meeting on Sunday was marked by division, with outgoing CEO Hans-Joachim Watzke elected president with only 59% of the vote despite running unopposed.
Elsewhere in the Bundesliga, Bayern Munich recovered from a two-goal deficit to thrash Freiburg 6-2, powered by a masterclass from Michael Olise. The victory sets them up for a crucial Champions League clash with Arsenal. Bayer Leverkusen moved into third place with a 3-1 win at Wolfsburg, though defensive questions remain ahead of their own European test against Manchester City.