VfB Stuttgart beat FC Hansa Rostock 4-0 in the DFB-Pokal, using their 4-2-3-1 structure and sustained control to overcome the hosts’ compact 5-4-1. Stuttgart held 75% possession and produced 21 shots, keeping Rostock pinned into a largely defensive shape while maintaining enough balance to limit counter-attacking opportunities. Tiago Tomas was among the scorers, contributing one goal to a decisive away performance, although the available data does not identify Stuttgart’s other goalscorers. Rostock still registered six shots on target from nine attempts, but Stuttgart’s goalkeeper saved all six efforts for a 100% save rate. At the opposite end, the visitors placed eight of their 21 shots on target and scored four times, with Rostock’s goalkeeper recording a 50% save percentage. The contrast in formations reflected the broader tactical pattern: Rostock prioritised numbers behind the ball, whereas Stuttgart used an extra attacking midfielder and extensive possession to apply repeated pressure. Sascha Stegemann refereed a match in which Stuttgart converted territorial authority into a comfortable margin. Stuttgart advance with a commanding first-round cup victory.