In spite of the concerns, the DFB squad advances significantly.
It's becoming more critical: Where do the German football team stand before the European Championship, held in their own country? Will they maintain the impressive performances from the March friendlies against France and the Netherlands? Or will they revert to their usual tendencies? The two dress rehearsals offer the first insights.
In the 0:0 draw against Ukraine, the style was spot-on, yet the outcome wasn't; in the 2:1 victory against Greece, it's the opposite. Both matches reveal where national coach Julian Nagelsmann still has problems to fix - and what's already working seamlessly. Six observations from the last two practice games before the tournament.
The Goalkeeper Dilemma Nagelsmann Refuses to Enter
Just in time for the start of the tournament, a fresh goalkeeper debate begins. Since Manuel Neuer's last DFB game 550 days ago, a series of complications ensued, including a broken leg and a straggling comeback at Bayern. Thus, the big question remained unanswered: In what shape is the multiple world champion truly in? Having played against Ukraine, the clarity over his state remains murky.
The 38-year-old showcased his highs and lows: At times, he dazzled with world-class performances, while at other moments, he committed surprising blunders a goalkeeper should avoid. Against Ukraine, Neuer nearly missed a chip ball meant for left-back Maximilian Mittelstädt, but instead it reached the head of an opponent. In the 2:1 win against Greece, he errantly let a harmless shot from Christos Tzolis slip past, leading to a 0:1 lead. He had similarly committed this mistake in the Champions League semi-final against Real Madrid.
The situation is further exacerbated by the persistent presence of Marc-André ter Stegen. The Barcelona goalkeeper, also on world-class level, has displayed dissent over Nagelsmann's choice but will ultimately comply. ntv.de expert Ewald Lienen opined the time was past due for giving Ter Stegen a shot.
And still, it won't occur. "I won't allow any disputes, no matter what," Nagelsmann argued during a news conference on Friday evening. "He delivered three top-notch games - there's nothing wrong." Nagelsmann's defense of Neuer signals that only the goalkeeper himself can put an end to the discussion.
Two games, Two Persistent Issues
There are some specters that won't leave us alone. After the fiery World Cup in Qatar 2022, the German football team has been struggling with a persistent issue: converting opportunities. And even against Ukraine, that pesky spirit stuck around: With 27 attempts on goal, none found the net. This is troublesome for tournament play: It's all about making the most of a limited number of shots.
The issue of the national team in both matchups was magnified by a remnant from former national coach Hansi Flick's era: flair. Sometimes they took overly risky crosses in front of the back four, and at other times, the counter-defense was surprisingly porous. In the weak first half against Greece, the German team frequently lost possession. The 0:1 against Greece was the result of many errors: The dangerous pass to Jamal Musiala, who was under pressure and lost the ball, followed by no sufficient pressing on the Greek attackers, concluding with Neuer's blunder. This mirrors the national team's old ways from recent years.
The luxury problem with too many options
In the offensive midfield, Nagelsmann enjoys plenty of options but also faces a difficult decision. Florian Wirtz, Jamal Musiala, Leroy Sané, Ilkay Gündoğan, Deniz Undav, and Thomas Müller: The list of potential starting lineup members is long... and unfortunately, there are only three available spots. It's clear that incorporating the two "centennial talents," Wirtz and Musiala, is a priority. But with so much talent, the result was, at times, lethargic against Greece.
This was primarily caused by the presence of captain Ilkay Gündoğan. His role as a pivot suited him well against the deep-lying Ukraine. Gündoğan played at six-man height and eagerly distributed the ball to Wirtz and Musiala. The downside of the Gündoğan strategy was exposed against Greece. German gameplay was mostly languid in the first half. There was a shortage of speed, making deep passes ineffective. Unlike Gündoğan, Musiala and Wirtz were highly active, but their interactions were too far from the six-man. Missing was a pivotal player on the wings capable of creating space.
It's not all bad, part II:
In summary, the German national team will enter the European Championship with mixed results and a number of areas to address. The challenge will be striking a balance between the inspiring performances and the old issues that persist. Players must find optimal form to present their best selves, and Nagelsmann will have to guide these players to championship-level gameplay.
Around Christmas, Nagelsmann realized things had to change. It followed two devastating losses to Austria (0:2) and Turkey (2:3) in test matches. His analysis yielded this: the coach restructured the team, a new role system emerged.
The impact of his decision is now evident. This was apparent in the two practice matches. In the first match against Ukraine, young, fast Maximilian Beier was introduced and significantly revived Germany's offensive game. Similarly, Leroy Sané's substitution against Greece addressed the depth problem. Adding to the positives, the replaced Pascal Groß scored the late 2:1.
As for the bad but not all bad, part two:
The German team had struggled with a lack of creativity in recent years. The solution was Julian Nagelsmann. The coach brought in a new generation of players and gave them the freedom to play their natural game. This has led to an exciting and dynamic playing style.
The results are apparent. In the test matches against Ukraine and Greece, the German team displayed a new level of creativity and panache. The players now play with more confidence and are willing to take risks. This is especially true of young talents like Jamal Musiala, Florian Wirtz, and Leroy Sané. They're not afraid to challenge opponents and create more scoring opportunities.
The future is bright for the German national team. With Nagelsmann at the core, they have a coach who's game to take bold steps and trust young players. This ensures the team stays refreshed and competitive for years to come.
Despite Ukraine and Greece not being the most thrilling contests, there is progress to be found. The team didn't actually score in the Ukraine game but were persistent in creating chances. The same happened in the Greece game: a defeat in the first half was turned around, resulting in a win. During Germany's dismal national team year of 2023, the picture was different: the team often crumbled quickly. Currently, however, the squad appears more solid.
The most significant moment is still ahead
Friday evening. 9 pm. The packed Allianz Arena in Munich. The UEFA eagerly fired a colossal pyrotechnic display. By now, all discussions and debates have ended. In the air, pre-euphoria looms: after months, the tournament finally commences.
For the German football national team, the opening match in the home European Championship is the most crucial moment of the group phase. A strong performance against Scotland, a convincing win possibly - and all worries are erased. If European Championship excitement is what we crave, Friday night will be pivotal. The team has it under control.
Read also:
Despite the goalkeeper debate surrounding Manuel Neuer and Marc-André ter Stegen, Julian Nagelsmann has maintained his faith in the former, stating that he's delivered three top-class performances in a row and doesn't see any reason for change. (The Goalkeeper Dilemma Nagelsmann Refuses to Enter)
In the European Football Championship 2024, Germany's offensive midfield is a source of both potential and challenge. With talents like Florian Wirtz, Jamal Musiala, Leroy Sané, Ilkay Gündoğan, Deniz Undav, and Thomas Müller, Nagelsmann has a plethora of options but must decide on the optimal three players to create a balanced and effective team. (Two games, Two Persistent Issues)
As the European Football Championship 2024 approaches, Germany's national soccer team is facing a significant moment. The opening match against Scotland in their home tournament may set the tone for their performance and determine whether they can erase their concerns or continue to struggle with their old tendencies. (The most significant moment is still ahead)
