Morocco forward El Khannous on target for Stuttgart in dominant win over Hamburg

Morocco international Bilal El Khannous registered his name on the scoresheet for Stuttgart in their dominant victory over Hamburg in the German Bundesliga.

El Khannous was in action as Stuttgart cruised to a resounding 4-0 victory over their opponent in the week 29 showdown.

The home side dominated proceedings from start to finish, showcasing attacking fluidity and clinical finishing to dismantle their visitors. Their emphatic performance not only secured all three points but also propelled them into third place, overtaking RB Leipzig on goal difference and strengthening their grip on a coveted top-four spot.

Stuttgart set the tone early in the first half when Angelo Stieler opened the scoring in the 21st minute. The breakthrough energized the hosts, who doubled their advantage just 11 minutes later through Chris Vorich, putting Hamburg firmly on the back foot before halftime.

After the break, Stuttgart maintained their intensity and attacking pressure. Maximilian Mittelstädt added a third in the 56th minute, effectively putting the result beyond doubt.

The night was made even more memorable by Moroccan international Bilal El Khannous, who capped off the rout with a late goal in the 86th minute — his first for the club since joining from Leicester City on loan, a move that was later made permanent. The young midfielder’s strike marked a significant milestone and underlined his growing influence within the squad.

Despite their dominance, Stuttgart were denied an even bigger margin of victory after striker Deniz Undav missed a second-half penalty, one of the few blemishes on an otherwise flawless display.

The result lifts Stuttgart to 56 points, level with Leipzig but ahead on goal difference, as they continue their push for a place in next season’s Champions League — a competition reserved for the top four teams in the Bundesliga.

For Stuttgart, last season’s German Cup winners, this performance sends a strong message to their rivals: they are not only contenders for a top-four finish but a team capable of delivering dominant displays when it matters most.