After losing star striker Nick Woltemade earlier in the day to Newcastle United, it was no surprise that Stuttgart looked a little blunt in attack during a goalless first half at the MHP Arena.
The hosts started the match on top, with Tiago Tomas forcing a save from Monchengladbach goalkeeper Moritz Nicolas, but the visitors began to grow into the game. In fact, they almost took the lead via Philipp Sander, with Alexander Nubel standing tall to deny the midfielder.
Sander threatened with a header moments later, while Joe Scally went close with an effort from a tight angle as Nübel again saved.
Mönchengladbach’s supremacy continued into the second half, and Kevin Stoger was the next to threaten an opener. He ought to have done better after being picked out inside the penalty area, but he instead fired his effort just wide of the far post.
Stuttgart manager Sebastian Hoeness subsequently looked to his bench for inspiration, but none of his changes provided an instant impact, and his side continued to struggle.
Football works in mysterious ways, though, and one of Hoeness’ second-half introductions eventually popped up with a much-needed goal to give the home side the lead.
A clipped ball into the box from Jamie Leweling found the head of Andres, who guided his effort into the far right corner of the Mönchengladbach goal for his maiden Stuttgart strike.
That was a killer blow for the Foals, who have now gone a whopping nine Bundesliga matches without a win, while Hoeness and Co. can celebrate a win that softens the loss of Woltemade somewhat.
Flashscore Man of the Match: Alexander Nubel (VfB Stuttgart)