Stuttgart held to friendly draw after late Paris FC comeback | OneFootball

VfB Stuttgart were denied victory in dramatic fashion as Paris FC fought back from two goals down to earn a 2-2 draw in Saturday’s pre-season friendly. Goals from Lazar Jovanović and Dan-Axel Zagadou had Sebastian Hoeneß’s side firmly in control, but a late brace from Luca Koleosho, including a last-gasp equaliser, ensured the spoils were shared.

Hoeneß named a strong starting XI featuring several experienced players, including Maximilian Mittelstädt, Chris Führich and captain Zagadou. Summer signing Grischa Prömel was absent after suffering a calf injury in training.

Stuttgart broke the deadlock after 16 minutes through Jovanović. Führich weaved his way into the penalty area before squaring an inviting pass for the Serbian youngster, who made no mistake from close range to give Die Schwaben a deserved lead heading into the interval.

Paris FC made a change at the break, replacing Jovanović with Badredine Bouanani, but it was Stuttgart who doubled their advantage nine minutes into the second half. Führich turned provider once again, delivering an excellent cross from the left for Zagadou to rise highest and power a header beyond Kevin Trapp to make it 2-0.

Hoeneß then refreshed his side on the hour mark, making nine substitutions as Ramon Hendriks, Joshua Vagnoman and Laurin Ulrich were among those introduced.

Paris FC began their comeback in the 70th minute when Koleosho reduced the deficit. With an additional 15 minutes played after the 90, the winger struck again in the 105th minute, finding a dramatic equaliser to rescue a draw for the French side.

The result marks Stuttgart’s first pre-season match without a victory this summer. Hoeneß’s side will now turn their attention to next weekend’s friendly against Premier League side Everton.