In a jaw-dropping display of attacking football, Union Berlin and VfB Stuttgart shattered the Bundesliga record for the most goals scored in a first half during their match on April 19, 2025. The two teams combined to net eight goals before halftime, ending the first 45 minutes with a thrilling scoreline of 4-4. This unprecedented event took place at the Stadion An der Alten Försterei, where fans witnessed a rollercoaster of emotions as both teams exchanged leads in a match that will be remembered for its sheer excitement.
Union Berlin, who entered the match boasting the second-best form in the league over the last five games, started strong. They took the lead just five minutes into the match when Andrej Ilic capitalized on a corner delivered by Christopher Trimmel, sending the home crowd into a frenzy. The early goal set the tone for what would become an extraordinary first half.
Stuttgart, however, was not to be outdone. Despite struggling in recent weeks with only one win since early February, the visitors found their rhythm. In the 19th minute, Danilho Doekhi doubled Union's lead by heading in his first Bundesliga goal of the season, making it 2-0. But Stuttgart responded with determination. Just four minutes later, Deniz Undav struck a beautiful shot from 20 yards, bringing Stuttgart back into contention.
The action continued to unfold at a frantic pace. In the 29th minute, Enzo Millot leveled the score at 2-2 with a curling effort from 25 yards, sending shockwaves through the home crowd. Union Berlin regained the lead in the 39th minute thanks to a stunning long-range strike from Leopold Querfeld, which had a goal probability of just 1.2 percent. This remarkable goal was the unlikeliest scored in Germany's top flight since the introduction of expected goals (xG) data collection in the 2020/21 season.
But Stuttgart was relentless. Just two minutes after Querfeld's strike, Jeff Chabot and Chris Führich combined to score two goals in quick succession, turning the tide in Stuttgart's favor and making it 4-3. The visitors appeared poised to head into halftime with the lead, but Union Berlin had other plans. In a dramatic finish, Ilic scored his second goal in the sixth minute of added time, leveling the match at 4-4 and ensuring the record for the most goals in a single half of Bundesliga football was firmly established.
The previous record of seven goals in a half was set back in May 2019, in a match where Eintracht Frankfurt defeated Bayer Leverkusen 6-1. The excitement of this match not only broke that record but also showcased the attacking prowess of both teams, leaving fans eager for the second half.
As the teams headed into the locker rooms, the atmosphere was electric. Union Berlin, with their recent form and home advantage, looked to carry the momentum into the second half. Meanwhile, Stuttgart, sitting at 11th in the Bundesliga table, were desperately seeking to climb back into contention for European qualification, trailing Mainz 05 by seven points.
In the buildup to the match, Stuttgart's head coach, Sebastian Hoeness, had provided a personnel update that had fans concerned. Jamie Leweling was ruled out due to muscle problems, while Nick Woltemade was suspended following a red card in the previous week's defeat to Werder Bremen. However, there was a silver lining: Jeff Chabot had shaken off a knock and was fit to play, and Deniz Undav was given the chance to start in place of Woltemade.
As the second half began, both teams were poised to continue their attacking displays. Fans were left wondering if the goal-fest would continue or if the defenses would finally tighten up. With both teams desperate for points, the stage was set for an unforgettable conclusion.
Union Berlin's fans were hopeful that their team could capitalize on their home advantage and secure a vital win to cement their position in the Bundesliga. Meanwhile, Stuttgart's supporters were eager to see their team turn their fortunes around after a series of disappointing results.
The Bundesliga has always been known for its thrilling matches and high-scoring affairs, but this encounter between Union Berlin and Stuttgart will be remembered as one of the most explosive in recent history. As the second half unfolds, the anticipation is palpable. Will either team manage to break the deadlock and secure all three points, or will they settle for a remarkable draw?
With the score tied at 4-4, the match remains wide open, and both teams have everything to play for. The excitement of a record-breaking first half has set the stage for what promises to be a thrilling finish.
