In the DFB Pokal competition on October 31, 2023, VfB Stuttgart hosted 1. FC Union Berlin. The match ended in a narrow 1-0 win for the home team, a result that was pegged on a myriad of statistical factors.

The only goal of the game, which came in favor of VfB Stuttgart, was scored in the very last minute of the first half. This was likely a significant psychological asset, breaking the deadlock just before half-time, thereby putting Union Berlin on the backfoot right before the break.

When it comes to discipline, both teams struggled with an equal number of yellow cards (2 each), with Stuttgart's first card coming roughly two minutes after Union Berlin's initial booking. Post these events, tempers seemed to flare up, leading to three more cards within the next six minutes. It's worth noting that while both teams managed to keep a lid on the red cards, the amount of fouls (18 in total) speak volumes of a match that was likely high on tension and aggressive play, which may have fractured the rhythm of the game and hindered scoring opportunities.

Examining both teams’ set-piece strategies, corner kicks were nearly on par with Stuttgart earning 4 against Union Berlin's 5. Stuttgart had an extra offside to their name (2-1), suggesting perhaps a more attack-minded approach, albeit thwarted by Union Berlin's defensive organization. Despite having less of the ball and fewer attacking free-kicks, Stuttgart were able to capitalize their goal opportunity more effectively than Union Berlin.

In conclusion, VfB Stuttgart's win in this match can be attributed to their timely goal just before half-time coupled with an aggressive, and perhaps risky, style of play with frequent offsides. Union Berlin, while having a greater number of corner kicks and less offsides, weren't able to make their opportunities count, documenting the vital difference in their respective performances. Despite the lapse in discipline from both teams, all the key statistical parameters point to a match where the home advantage and efficient utilization of set pieces resulted in Stuttgart's victory.

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