Germany analysis: late victory exposes defensive flaws | OneFootball

Germany secured a late victory over the Ivory Coast to book their place in the Round of 32, but Julian Nagelsmann’s side once again had some worrying weaknesses exposed.

Germany have now reached the knockout stages for the first time since 2014, but their performances have also highlighted why they are not currently among the tournament top favourites.

FromTheSpot analyses how Germany overcame the Ivory Coast and where Nagelsmann’s team could encounter problems in the rounds ahead.

Recurring defensive concerns

Germany had already conceded a preventable goal against Curaçao, and similar problems resurfaced against the Ivory Coast.

One of the biggest issues was Germany’s defending on the flanks. Leroy Sané, who had faced criticism before the tournament, struggled to make an impact at either end of the pitch. He played a role in the goal Germany conceded after leaving Joshua Kimmich isolated against Yan Diomande and offered little attacking threat before being substituted.

The lack of support for Kimmich was evident throughout the match. Germany’s pressing and defensive organisation on the wings failed to function effectively, particularly on the right side. In contrast, Florian Wirtz and Nathaniel Brown worked far more effectively together on the opposite flank.

Kimmich also failed to impress in his direct battle with Diomande. He was repeatedly beaten for pace and did little to influence the game in attack. At the same time, Germany’s central midfielders need to do a better job of making themselves available when the defenders need an outlet.

The lack of support on the wings was particularly noticeable. Double-teaming opponents in wide areas has to work better, and Kimmich needs more help when isolated. He also has to be more aggressive in challenges and slow attacks down until support arrives.

These are problems Germany cannot afford to carry into the knockout rounds, where stronger opponents will punish them far more ruthlessly.

The highs and lows of Germany’s attack

Germany’s attacking players also struggled for consistency. Throughout the first half, poor first touches repeatedly disrupted promising moves, while several long passes lacked the accuracy needed to trouble the Ivorian defence.

Felix Nmecha once again demonstrated his importance to the team. Although his contribution can sometimes go unnoticed, he played a crucial role in both goals and continues to provide immense value through his ball recoveries, defensive work and ability to drive transitions from midfield.

The biggest positive once again was Deniz Undav. The striker came off the bench and immediately changed the game, scoring both decisive goals. With three goals and two assists to his name, he has been the top scorer of the tournament so far.

Nagelsmann must now seriously consider whether Undav deserves a place in the starting line-up.

Substitutes Jamie Leweling, Nadim Amiri and Undav all injected fresh energy into the side, helping Germany regain momentum when they needed it most.

Perhaps the most encouraging aspect was the mentality Germany showed. In recent years, this has often been missing, but against the Ivory Coast the team continued to believe and fought until the final whistle. It was a collective effort that ultimately secured the late victory.

Nagelsmann will, however, be concerned about Nico Schlotterbeck, who was forced off at half-time through injury. No further details are known at this stage.

Germany concludes their group-stage campaign against Ecuador on Thursday, where they will have another opportunity to address the shortcomings exposed against the Ivory Coast before the knockout phase begins.

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