New Stuttgart striker Pejcinovic scores hat-trick on debut in 4-0 DFB-Pokal win

Dzenan Pejcinovic announced his arrival at VfB Stuttgart with a bang, scoring three goals on his competitive debut to power the team to a commanding 4-0 win against third-division side FC Hansa Rostock in the DFB-Pokal. The 21-year-old forward, a 25 million euro transfer from VfL Wolfsburg, showcased his prowess in front of 27,453 spectators at the Ostseestadion, finding the net in the 18th, 37th, and 82nd minutes.

Pejcinovic's stellar performance was the highlight of a dominant display by the Bundesliga club, who also saw Tiago Tomas add a third goal in the 74th minute. "I am happy to have had such a debut. It is also important for me that I work for the team, that I do my part for success, and I managed that quite well today," Pejcinovic said after the match.

The DFB-Pokal has become a favored competition for Stuttgart, who lifted the cup in 2025 and were finalists in 2026. The team has lost only three of their last 22 cup matches. Despite an early setback with Nikolas Nartey's injury in the ninth minute, Stuttgart controlled the game, enjoying 71% possession in the first half and completing 362 passes to Rostock's 144. This pressure contributed to both of Pejcinovic's first-half goals, as Rostock lost possession during build-up play.

Hansa Rostock had a brief moment of opportunity to equalize after Stuttgart's first goal, but Leon Dajaku's pass was inaccurate. Stuttgart's goalkeeper Fabian Bredlow also made a crucial save to deny Yannick Michaelis. The club's goalkeeping situation remains uncertain, with questions about whether they will sign a new goalkeeper.

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I am happy to have had such a debut. It is also important for me that I work for the team, that I do my part for success, and I managed that quite well today.