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Stuttgart against Leverkusen dubbed the €20 million game
TL;DR
VfB Stuttgart faces Bayer Leverkusen in a critical match dubbed the €20 million game, as both vie for the final Champions League spot. The outcome is crucial following UEFA's decision to grant a Champions League berth to fifth place in Spain instead of Germany.
Key points
- Stuttgart vs Leverkusen match is dubbed the €20 million game
- Both teams are competing for the fourth Champions League spot
- Fifth place in Spain now receives a Champions League berth
VfB StuttgartBayer LeverkusenBundesliga
Stuttgart coach Sebastian Hoeness gestures on the touchline during the German Bundesliga soccer match between TSG 1899 Hoffenheim and VfB Stuttgart at PreZero Arena. Uwe Anspach/dpa
VfB Stuttgart against Bayer Leverkusen on Saturday has been dubbed the €20 million game in German media as the pair battle it out for the fourth and final Champions League spot in the Bundesliga.
It was confirmed on Thursday that fifth place in Spain not Germany would receive a Champions League berth alongside England via UEFA coefficients.
That means fifth-placed Stuttgart and Leverkusen are in a fight for the fourth spot currently occupied by the Werkself on goal difference. Hoffenheim, in sixth, are also level on points with the duo ahead of the final two matchdays of the season.
Champions Bayern Munich and second-placed Borussia Dortmund are already assured of Champions League qualification while RB Leipzig, in third, only need a win at home to relegation-threatened St Pauli on Saturday to guarantee their passage.
Freiburg could take a fifth spot for Germany in Europe's top club competition if they win the Europa League final, but for now the focus is all on the game in Stuttgart.
Q&A
Why is the Stuttgart vs Leverkusen match called the €20 million game?
The match is dubbed the €20 million game because it determines which team secures the final Champions League spot, significantly impacting their financial earnings.
What are the current standings of Stuttgart and Leverkusen in the Bundesliga?
Stuttgart is currently in fifth place, while Bayer Leverkusen holds the fourth spot, with both teams tied on points but separated by goal difference.
What recent change did UEFA make regarding Champions League spots?
UEFA confirmed that fifth place in Spain will receive a Champions League berth, affecting the competition for the final spot in Germany.