Four Observations from Germany’s disappointing 3-2 loss to Turkey
The defeat was symbolic in more ways than one.
With no Bayern Munich action, we are deep into Germany’s 3-2 loss vs. Turkey…here are some observations on the match:
All the benefits and drawbacks of Nagelsmann’s systems on full display
When it works, it is beautiful. When it does not work, it really falls apart. Germany lined up with a truly unorthodox lineup, with Kai Havertz at left-back the most talked about decision. Though, when the game started, it was clear that Germany lined up with a back three and lots of bodies in the middle with the intent to funnel the ball out wide and then win it. The scheme worked well for the first 20 minutes, with Germany dominating and nearly scoring a few goals, but then Turkey figured out the counterplay: playing direct balls in behind.
From then on, Germany’s defense really struggled to deal with Turkey and the attacking structure really collapsed at times. In full flow, Germany’s attack was still beautiful to watch with so many players streaking forward and some bigl chances being created, but at other times it was too slow and losing possession would imminently lead to dangerous counterattacks. There is a lot for Nagelsmann to work on.
Kenan Yildiz scores against Germany
It was always going to happen. Kenan Yildiz was born in Germany and spent a lot of his life in the country, including nearly 10 years in Bayern Munich’s academy. However, the DFB completely ignored him, refused to call him up consistently and did not attempt to convince him to represent Germany. Therefore, Turkey had a very easy time convincing Yildiz to join them. He would immediately join their U-21s as a 17-year-old and now, at 18, he made his full debut for the senior side — against Germany.
The goal was always going to happen.
In general, this is a problem that has plagued the DFB for many years. There have been many dual internationals over the years who have declared for other countries when they could be playing for Germany. Jamal Musiala was the exception, not the rule. The fact that it blew up so spectacularly for Germany in the game today was long overdue karma and hopefully will lead the DFB to do better in the future.
Florian Wirtz is still struggling for Germany
It is early days, of course, but the inconsistency of Florian Wirtz when he is wearing the Germany shirt is startling. At times, he shows his indomitable qualities, as he did when assisting Niclas Füllkrug for his goal. But, as Nagelsmann alluded to his in his pre-match press conference, he is still shy and does not take charge like he does for his club side, Bayer Leverkusen.
He is of course just 20, and the confidence will likely still develop the more he plays for Germany, but Germany could really use a more confident Wirtz right now. Hopefully, it will all come together for Euro 2024.
Kevin Trapp reminds us why he is the country’s No. 3 goalkeeper
Even with Manuel Neuer’s long injury enforced absence from international duty, Kevin Trapp has not had a lot of chances to prove his value to the national team. But with Marc Andre ter Stegen suddenly unavailable, Trapp was given the starting berth and he did not disappoint. Despite conceding three (unsaveable) goals, Trapp was a solid presence between the sticks and made numerous key interventions to stop the scoreline from getting worse. Trapp’s passing is not Neuer-esque but his calming presence and assured handling certainly is.
Trapp will be given one more chance to don the gloves before the international break is up and if it is like this one, no keeper will be able to dislodge him from the No. 3 spot. That is a compliment, believe it or not.
Read more
