National squad - Nagelsmann dispels all uncertainties: "Capable of achieving significant success"
Pascal Groß's stunning last-minute goal for the German national team during a family weekend game against Greece lifted the spirits of the players, in spite of Julian Nagelsmann's late-game switch-up. This victory came just a week before the opening game against Scotland in Munich. Although the hectic mood from Nagelsmann might appear overly optimistic, he is adamant in his belief in the team's potential to win the title.
"I'm extremely confident in the team," proclaimed the 36-year-old coach, sounding every inch like a championship contender. He's keen on achieving great outcomes in the tournament, insisting that they'll put in their utmost effort to make that dream a reality. The German team's avoidance of injuries in the lead-up to the Euros was essential and seemed to have been achieved. However, in the first-half, there was a notable lack of tournament excitement, with captain Toni Kroos even going so far as to label the performance "simply erratic" and "underwhelming."
"We managed to do what we needed to do," Nagelsmann remarked, focusing on the result rather than the earlier subpar display. He also stressed the impact of late goals on a team's psyche: "It's really exciting to have these sorts of wins," he said, comparing it to the mental fortitude of Bayer Leverkusen, who won many close games through their toughness. Their ability to triumph in nail-biting situations is crucial for a championship-winning team.
Nagelsmann refuses to sidestep the heated debate about Manuel Neuer's goalkeeping abilities, insisting that the legendary keeper would be manning the post for the Euros. "He's the goalkeeper for the European Championship," he declared.
As they await their return on Monday morning, the German team had a quick transit courtesy of a shuttle service from the stadium, probably on their way to reunite with their families. Alexander Nübel, who had been dropped from the squad, would not be present for this trip.
"The win overall was good for the spirit," Nagelsmann said, mentioning how game-winning goals can generate a strong sense of morale. He hinted at the prospect of the group stage matches against Scotland, Hungary, and Switzerland ending in close 2:1 results: "That would suit me absolutely," he revealed.
Kroos openly admitted that their performance dropped significantly from the world-class form they demonstrated in their wins against France and Holland. While Nagelsmann highlights how they're currently "more solid" than they were in November, after withstanding losses to Turkey and Austria, he still views them as a team to be reckoned with. His current strategy relies on Toni Kroos as the linchpin.
Neuer, once a symbol of victory and the hero of the 2014 World Cup, has now emerged as a potential liability owing to his glaring errors. The keeper may still be pulling off spectacular saves, but there's a raging discourse about his form. Nagelsmann insists that there's nothing he can Do about the situation, however, firmly confirming Neuer as the keeper for the tournament.
Leroy Sané, who made an appearance after recovering from a thigh injury, weaved magic from the bench during his 45-minute stint. He was instrumental in setting up a goal for Kai Havertz, assisting in the equalizer. Benjamin Henrichs had a near-miss, coming close to scoring. Nico Schlotterbeck's crucial intervention cleared a lurking threat. And, Pascal Groß delivered the game-winning goal. "I was extremely content," he said.
In the backdrop of the song "Major Tom" was playing at the stadium, the atmosphere was electric. "We need the support of the fans to help us," stated captain Ilkay Gündogan. Sold-out Borussia-Park bore testimony to the eagerness of the spectators to cheer their team on, hoping for success and revelry. Groß's game-winning goal prevented a potential disappointment. The potency of crucial goals in tournaments has been proven, such as when Oliver Neuville scored a spectacular last-minute goal against Poland, providing the impetus for an unforgettable World Cup series in 2006.
