Stuttgarter Kickers began their pre-season preparations with an emphatic 3-0 victory over Villingen in an International Club Friendly at the Gazi-Stadion auf der Waldau on 18 July 2026. The Regionalliga Südwest side dominated from start to finish, showcasing their attacking depth and defensive solidity.

Match Overview

The historic club, founded in 1899, used this friendly to fine-tune tactics ahead of the new regional league campaign. Villingen, from the Oberliga Baden-Württemberg, faced a tough test against a side two divisions above them. Despite the gulf in class, Villingen defended resolutely but could not contain Kickers’ relentless pressure.

Key Moments

• First-half opener: Stuttgarter Kickers took the lead in the 22nd minute. A corner was cleared to the edge of the box, where midfielder Max Gries volleyed it into the bottom corner.
• Second goal just before the break: The home side doubled their lead in the 42nd minute. Striker Lukas Kiefer latched onto a through ball and rounded the keeper to slot home.
• Third goal seals victory: Kickers added a third in the 67th minute. Substitute winger Jonas Müller dribbled past two defenders and fired a low shot into the far post.

Tactical Story

Stuttgarter Kickers set up in a 4-2-3-1 formation, controlling possession and using quick passing to break down Villingen’s compact defence. Full-backs pushed high to create width, while the midfield duo of Gries and captain Fabian Baumgärtel dictated play. Villingen defended deep in a 5-4-1 but lacked the pace to counter effectively. Kickers’ patience and movement eventually overwhelmed the visitors.

Standout Players

• Lukas Kiefer (Stuttgarter Kickers): A clinical performance in front of goal, scoring one and assisting another.
• Max Gries (Stuttgarter Kickers): Dominated the midfield and opened the scoring with a fine strike.
• Jonas Müller (Stuttgarter Kickers): Impactful off the bench, scoring a brilliant solo goal.

Season Impact

Stuttgarter Kickers will be pleased with their clean sheet and multiple goal scorers. The performance suggests they are building strong cohesion ahead of competitive matches. Villingen will take lessons from the game, particularly in defending against higher-quality movement, but showed discipline for long periods.