Speaking to ARD (via @iMiaSanMia) following Germany’s 2-0 loss to Slovakia, Julian Nagelsmann has reacted to the team’s performance in their first World Cup qualifier.
Germany lost 2-0 in Bratislava thanks to goals from Atletico Madrid defender David Hancko as well as Middlesbrough striker David Strelec.
In his reaction to the game, the Bundestrainer said:
“Apart from 2-3 injured players, these are the best quality players we have in Germany. Maybe next time we have to call up players with less quality but who will give everything on the pitch. I trust my players, but being simply a better player than the opponent is not enough if you don’t show willingness and desire. Why do you think a team like Wiesbaden almost drew 2-2 with FC Bayern? it’s not because they have better quality, but because they showed emotionality and desire”
The loss means that Germany have started their World Cup qualifiers off in the worst possible way. They will have their next chance for a win against Northern Ireland on Sunday in Köln.
This is Germany’s third loss in a row, following their UEFA Nations League defeats against Portugal and France in the summer. With the World Cup only nine months away, the three defeats have provided a much-needed wake-up call for the national team.
GGFN | Jack Meenan
