No Bayern Munich talents starred for Germany tonight, but Julian Nagelsmann’s side collected a 2-1 win over Greece in the final tune-up before EURO 2024.
Germany would have been hoping for a stronger performance going into their opening match of the 2024 UEFA Euros, but will be satisfied with a win.
Here are four observations from the 2-1 victory at Borussia-Park.
The substitutes prove to be the dentures to a toothless German attack
Germany spent a large part of the first half making a series of passes that were unable to break through a stubborn Greek defence.
The second half saw some improvement with Leroy Sané coming on to provide some attacking impetus, ultimately setting up Kai Havertz’s 55th minute goal. Pascal Groß (another substitute) proved to be the difference maker in the end, scoring a stunning long-range volley to seal a 2-1 victory for his side.
The second half subs proved to be the difference in a largely underwhelming German attack.
Germany’s counterattack complications
Sluggish and unorganised, Germany were perhaps lucky to walk away largely unscathed from a number of Greek counterattacks.
The high defensive line, paired with a below average pace backline could prove to be Germany’s undoing at the Euros, especially against stronger opposition.
No disrespect to Greece, but Germany won’t be so fortuitous when they come up against some of the big guns at the Euros.
Time for a “Neue(r)” keeper?
Manuel Neuer, being the high-risk high reward type of keeper he is, has always been prone to a high profile mistake from time to time, however, Germany’s number one shot stopper seems to be making a habit of it lately (Neuer’s blunder against Real Madrid in the Champions League semifinal comes to mind).
Neuer started the game strong with a world class double save, but later, spilled a long range shot right into the path of Giorgas Masouras who took advantage to give Greece a 1-0 lead.
Julian Nagelsmann really does have to contemplate whether Manuel Neuer is his strongest goalkeeping option.
A win is a win
I hate to say it but sometimes that’s all you need, especially in tournament football.
It was a pretty dreary display overall, however, this performance shows that Germany has the ability to fight back and get the job done. A characteristic that will be invaluable heading into the Euros.