Hansa Rostock 5–3 VfB Stuttgart II: A goal-fest at the Ostseestadion

German 3. Liga – 9 May 2026 – Hansa Rostock produced a thrilling attacking display to beat VfB Stuttgart II 5–3 in a nine-goal classic at the Ostseestadion. The result keeps Rostock firmly in the promotion race, while the young Stuttgart side left with nothing despite a brave fightback.

Match overview

From the first whistle, both sides showed intent to attack. Hansa struck early through a well-worked set piece, but Stuttgart II responded quickly with a goal of their own. The first half ended 2–2, setting the stage for a frantic second period. Rostock turned on the style after the break, scoring three times to establish a commanding lead before Stuttgart pulled one back late.

Key moments

• 7' – Goal! Hansa Rostock take the lead when a corner is headed home by central defender Markus Kolke.
• 22' – Equaliser! Stuttgart II catch Rostock off guard: a swift counter‑attack finished by Luca Mack.
• 34' – Hansa ahead again A speculative long‑range effort finds the top corner – 2–1.
• 41' – Stuttgart level before the break A defensive mix‑up allows Jannik Dehm to tap in.
• 52' – Hansa strike early in the second half A clinical finish from Jonas Verkamp makes it 3–2.
• 63' – Fourth for Rostock A counter‑attack is finished by Nils Fröling.
• 71' – Fifth goal! Rostock add a fifth through substitute Serdar Dursun.
• 84' – Stuttgart pull one back A penalty converted by Raul Paula gives the visitors hope, but it’s too late.

Standout performers

Rostock’s attacking quartet were unplayable. Jonas Verkamp was a constant threat, scoring one and assisting two. Nils Fröling used his pace to stretch the Stuttgart defence all night. For the visitors, Luca Mack showed maturity beyond his years, scoring and creating chances, but his teammates could not contain Rostock’s relentless pressure.

Table impact

The three points lift Hansa Rostock to third place in the 3. Liga standings, just two points behind automatic promotion places. For VfB Stuttgart II, defeat leaves them in mid‑table, with little chance of challenging for the top spots this season.