Germany have claimed the Confederations Cup with a hard fought 1-0 win against Chile in St. Petersburg. After weathering an early storm, Die Mannschaft punished a bad mistake from Marcelo Diaz with Timo Werner setting up Lars Stindl for the winning goal.
Chile dominated possession and had more chances to score, but Germany displayed their cohesiveness, spirit and belief especially during the last 20 minutes as La Roja threw everything they had at Germany in search of an equaliser.
After sending an experimental squad to Russia which contained eight players who were eligible for the successful U21 European Championships, the victory is a testament to German player development and the management of Joachim Löw. It is clear the current World Cup holders have no intention of relinquishing their title when they return to Russia in 2018.
Marc-André ter Stegen – 7
Was wasteful in possession in the first half as Chile pressed high in the German half. Did well to divert two shots away from goal late on and was almost caught out with Sagal blazing over. Produced a good save from a Sanchez free kick late on, diving to his left and punching it away to ensure the win.
Matthias Ginter – 6
Did well to limit opportunities from Sanchez and Vargas and was assisted on numerous occasions by Kimmich who did a solid job tracking back. Fouled Valencia in a dangerous position late on with Sanchez’ free kick saved but played his part in the clean sheet.
Shkodran Mustafi – 7
Dealt with most of the threats that came his way which were plentiful. Dominant in the air, using his strength advantage to clear the ball on numerous occasions.
Antonio Rüdiger – 7
Was busy early on and contributed to keeping Chile at bay. After a solid tackle on Aranguiz, Rüdiger grew into the game and was kept busy by the lively Isla but showed he was up for the challenge. All in all a solid performance in a difficult match.
Jonas Hector – 6
Did his best to nullify the Isla threat, fading in that respect which placed increased pressure on Rüdiger. Hector’s defensive duties meant he was unable to contribute as much in attack as he would have liked.
Joshua Kimmich – 8
Was trying his best to initiate attacks despite having to nullify Beausejour and Sanchez. The 22-year-old showed what a talent he is in the face of adversity, eventually winning the battle with Beausejour and providing interceptions that initiated counter attacks. He has made the right back position his own for the next decade.
Sebastian Rudy – 8
Made vital interceptions as Chile dominated the early stages and always attempted to play the ball forward. Had a difficult assignment on Vidal and covered a lot of ground in his effort to break up play. Produced a crucial block on Sanchez in a complete central midfield performance.
Julian Draxler (C) – 7
Like many of his team-mates, Draxler was unable to impose himself on the game early on. Despite having to track back and deal with threats, the German captain produced surging attacking runs and was looking the most dangerous alongside Werner. Set up Goretzka, had an effort deflected wide and never shirked his responsibilities, deservedly awarded the Golden Ball award for best player throughout the tournament.
Leon Goretzka – 6
Caught in possession early on which led to a Vargas shot, getting into the box with a good chance to score with his shot from a tight angel saved by Bravo. Was unable to replicate the outstanding form we have seen from the Schalke player throughout the tournament, but played his role in the victory.
Lars Stindl – 7
A poor start from Stindl as he gave away possession and was largely ineffective. Popped up at the vital moment however, tapping in the winning goal after Werner had robbed Diaz and put it on a plate. Stindl’s versatility, ability to drift across the front line and play as a striker are valuable weapons for Löw, with three goals in the tournament highlighting his effectiveness.
Timo Werner – 7
Had a thankless task up front, often isolated and against multiple defenders but was a useful outlet and produced the interception and assist for Stindl’s winner. A tireless performance, Werner showed his confidence and no nonsense attitude even after Jara deliberately elbowed him in the face. Awarded the Golden boot, Werner looks like he is on the road to a long and successful career with Die Mannschaft.
Substitutes
Emre Can – n/a
Came on late for Werner as Germany faced the final barrage. Added another body in midfield and did his job wasting time to ensure the victory.
Niklas Süle – n/a
Replaced Goretzka in stoppage time for extra insurance and to eat up valuable minutes.
