Germany’s Reputation
Germany’s World Cup reputation is not exaggerated. The team has claimed victory four times. Their recent match against Ivory Coast, however, showed vulnerabilities. With Franck Kessie’s goal, Germany was trailing 1-0. They looked disorganized until Deniz Undav’s intervention. Undav, who plays for Stuttgart, scored twice in the second half, including a stoppage-time winner. This secured Germany a spot in the last 32.
Do Germany look like winners?
This match was one of only two comeback wins, the other being South Korea’s victory over the Czech Republic. Initially, Germany did not appear as potential champions, yet this might benefit them in future rounds. The first half featured mediocre attacking play due to Nagelsmann’s midfield-heavy system clashing with Ivory Coast’s 4-1-4-1 formation. Neither Florian Wirtz nor Jamal Musiala managed to find dangerous spaces. Nathaniel Brown’s actions were notable, but Germany lacked movement and space creation. Their best chance came from Kai Havertz’s header, which Joshua Kimmich assisted, forcing Yahia Fofana into a commendable save.
Germany’s triple substitution at 60 minutes improved their performance. With Deniz Undav partnering Havertz, they gained targets in the box. Eight minutes later, substitutes Nadiem Amiri and Undav collaborated for Germany’s first goal. Despite Ivory Coast’s defensive focus to preserve a draw, they missed a chance when Simon Adingra struggled during a counter-attack. Germany’s winner was executed with precision; Felix Nmecha passed through midfield to Undav, who scored skillfully. Germany avoided repeating the early exits of 2018 and 2022. Though unconvincing, their performance reflects Argentina’s style from four years ago.
How good was supersub Undav?
Undav’s contributions were pivotal for Nagelsmann, as one substitute assisted the first goal scored by another. Amiri’s cross and Undav’s finish were commendable. Undav ended last season with 19 Bundesliga goals, trailing only Harry Kane, who scored 36. Nagelsmann’s choice to substitute Musiala with Amiri was risky but effective.
Undav’s story stands out. His career began in Germany’s fourth tier, moving up to play in 3.Liga. Union Saint-Gilloise took him from that level, leading to his current role as a key German player in the World Cup.
Undav delivered the required finishing, impacting Germany positively. Yet, mixed feelings remain about the necessity for his involvement, given the team’s previously lackluster performance.
How strong are Africa’s teams?
Ivory Coast’s commendable display against Germany aligns with the trend of strong African performances in the tournament. Africa has ten teams this year, twice as many as in 2022, a fair increase due to expanded qualification.
During the first half, Ivory Coast surpassed Germany, defended well in a 4-1-4-1, and transitioned into a 4-3-3 offensively, emphasizing speed and direct passes. Joshua Kimmich’s defensive weaknesses were exposed. Ivory Coast is favored to secure a spot in the last 32 against Curacao.
Morocco, the first African team in World Cup semi-finals four years ago, now has four points. They challenged Brazil in the opening round and triumphed over Scotland 1-0, thanks to Ismael Saibari’s record-breaking early goal. Senegal, despite losing to France, can draw points from Norway and Iraq. Cape Verde debuted by holding Spain to a goalless draw. Egypt gained a point against Belgium, DR Congo leveled with Portugal, and Ghana defeated Panama late on.
Is Germany’s defense a big problem?
Ivory Coast’s goal highlighted Germany’s known defensive flaws. Kessie’s goal exhibited issues with Germany’s defense losing composure when Ivory Coast attacked. This vulnerability reflects balance issues Germany has contended with for a decade.
The goal conceded illustrated Germany’s defensive challenges. The ball progressed further than it should have due to Kimmich failing to intercept Yan Diomande’s cross.
Germany often makes basic defensive errors leading to goals. Their team prioritizes ball progression and chance creation over solid defense. Redesigned strategies might involve substituting an attacking midfielder for another defensive player, aiming for greater security. Leroy Sane might be replaced, though the attack is already weak and this shift could introduce new complications.
How did Wahi fare after his turbulent week?
Elye Wahi of Ivory Coast began on the bench. He faced a challenging week, being initially denied entry into Canada over allegations of match-fixing.
The Athletic reported that Wahi was arrested by French anti-corruption police on May 29, two weeks before the World Cup. He was being investigated for possibly receiving a deliberate yellow card in a Ligue 1 match. Marseille prosecutors confirmed Wahi’s arrest related to organized crime and money laundering
Although uncharged, French authorities allowed Wahi to travel to the World Cup. The investigation remains open. Sources revealed Wahi was initially denied entry into Canada, with the Ivorian Federation stating he would remain in the U.S. However, petitions later allowed him to travel to Toronto.
Wahi was involved in Ivory Coast’s win over Ecuador but stayed on the bench for the Germany match, when manager Emerse Fae adjusted from a 4-4-2 to a 4-3-3. Evann Guessand substituted Ange-Yoan Bonny in the 75th minute, replacing the need for Wahi.
When do these teams play next?
Group E continues on Thursday, June 25:
- Curacao vs Ivory Coast: 4pm ET (9pm BST), Philadelphia, U.S.
- Ecuador vs Germany: 4pm ET (9pm BST), New Jersey, U.S.
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