Stuttgart’s 4-1 win in Glasgow is more than halfway to the round of 16. Unlike recently, VfB can impress away from home in the Europa League – thanks in part to Bilal El Khannouss.
The weeks following the lost Africa Cup final against Senegal (0-1 a.e.t.) were tough. Bilal El Khannouss found himself in a slump, not only physically but also mentally. Nothing was going right, and in the end, the proud Moroccan had to leave the field at halftime during the recent 1-2 defeat at FC St. Pauli due to poor performance. A decision that VfB coach Sebastian Hoeneß rarely makes.
This did not affect the player any less. It obviously had an effect. In the playoff first leg in Glasgow, the 21-year-old showed his better side again. He still didn’t get everything right, but he did score two goals in a convincing and unexpected 4-1 win at Celtic.
“I’m back,” says El Khannouss himself, asking for understanding. “Don’t forget: I’m 21. There are ups and downs. The important thing is to fight your way back.” He has succeeded in doing that. “I always try to be the best version of myself. It worked this time.” A good start, he thinks. “I can do even better.”
“Nothing is impossible in soccer”
Ideally on Sunday in Heidenheim, where VfB will be back in league action. “It will be a difficult task. Everyone here knows that,” explains the offensive player, who laid the foundation for advancing with his two goals in Scotland. Nevertheless, it would be wise not to be careless. “Nothing is impossible in soccer. There is still a second game to play.”