Football

Ten-man Bayer Leverkusen emerged victorious in the season-opening German Super Cup, defeating Stuttgart 4-3 on penalties after a thrilling 90 minutes that ended 3-3. The match marked the first time Leverkusen had lifted the trophy.Victor Boniface opened the scoring for Leverkusen in the 11th minute, but Stuttgart's Enzo Millot equalized just four minutes later. Leverkusen's hopes were dealt a blow shortly before halftime when Martin Terrier was sent off for a dangerous tackle, leaving them with 10 men.Stuttgart took advantage of their numerical superiority in the second half, with Deniz Undav giving them the lead. However, Patrik Schick's goal with two minutes remaining sent the match to penalties.In the shootout, Bayern Munich loanee Frans Kraetzig and Silas Mvumpa missed from the spot for Stuttgart, while Leverkusen converted all of their penalties.Leverkusen coach Xabi Alonso praised his team's "huge spirit" and determination, particularly in the final 10-15 minutes when they were down a man. He expressed satisfaction with the team's start to the season and their renewed spirit.Stuttgart manager Sebastian Hoeness acknowledged that the match was a positive sign for his team, who had undergone significant upheaval during the summer. He noted that the performance demonstrated that they were "going in the right direction."The German Super Cup, which traditionally pits the Bundesliga champions against the Cup winners or league runners-up, was played without either Bayern Munich or Borussia Dortmund for the first time since 1993.