Germany 2-1 Greece: Initial reactions and observations

Initial reactions and observations

• While the performance was mostly below par, Germany managed to bring it home in some style near the end. This is the kind of result you want a week before a major tournament — it gives the players and the coach some momentum and confidence.
• Subbing on Leroy Sané and David Raum gave Germany options out wide that they were missing in the first half. Turns out that an overabundance of attacking midfielders doesn’t help score goals.
• Despite being the captain, İlkay Gündoğan remains an enigma in this Germany side. What is his role, exactly? He doesn’t actually have any noticeable impact — Germany arguably looked more dangerous once he was subbed.
• Manuel Neuer’s mistake for the opener will be talked about, but let’s not forget he also made two insane saves to keep Greece from scoring when the defense failed him. Nagelsmann’s decision to not include Mats Hummels in this squad seems like it could backfire.

88’ — GOOOOOOAL! Groß makes it 2-1 with an incredible screamer!

56’ — GOOOOOOAL! Havertz makes it 1-1!

45’ — The second half is underway! Leroy Sané and David Raum have been subbed on for Florian Wirtz and Mittelstädt.

Halftime: Can someone cancel the Euros?

34’ — Goal. Greece have taken the lead. Germany are terrible today. One week to the tourney.

Kickoff: We’re underway!

One hour until kickoff: Will this be the starting XI we see at the Euros? Toni Kroos slots in next to Robert Andrich in midfield, with Kai Havertz leading the line. From a Bayern Munich perspective, you have Manuel Neuer, Jamal Musiala, and Joshua Kimmich in this XI — no space for Müller or Pavlović.

After the draw to Ukraine, Germany have one last chance to prove themselves before the start of Euro 2024. Former Bayern Munich coach Julian Nagelsmann has all but finalized his squad for the upcoming tournament, which means the team we see start tonight vs Greece could be the one to start vs Scotland in the opener.

Is this this Germany team ready for the big occassion? Or is another disappointing tournament on the cards? The answer could depend on how this preparation friendly vs Greece goes.

Match Info

Location: Borussia Park, Gladbach, Germany

Time: 8:45 pm local time

TV/streaming: Find Your Country

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