Niclas Füllkrug grabbed a crucial late equalizer for Germany in their Euro 2024 Group A encounter with Switzerland at Frankfurt Arena on Sunday evening, preventing what would have been a surprising defeat for the hosts. Julian Nagelsmann’s side had been expected to secure a victory to top the group with maximum points, but the draw ultimately proved sufficient.
Report
A terrific injury-time header from Niclas Füllkrug at the end of another thrilling match salvaged a draw for Germany, who now advance to the Euro 2024 knockout stages as Group A winners. Switzerland, who had taken the lead in the first half and performed excellently throughout, qualify for the last 16 in second place.
Germany began the match strongly, dominating possession, but Switzerland defended with discipline and conviction, effectively closing down spaces and winning challenges. In the 17th minute, Robert Andrich thought he had put the hosts ahead with his first international goal, only for VAR to disallow it due to a foul by Jamal Musiala on Michel Aebischer.
Switzerland then took the lead in the 28th minute. Fabian Rieder won the ball and drove forward, setting up Remo Freuler, whose excellent cross was volleyed home by Dan Ndoye. Despite this setback, Germany struggled to improve after halftime and were as likely to concede a second goal as they were to find an equalizer.
With seconds remaining, substitute David Raum crossed for another substitute, Füllkrug, whose touch, strength, and composure under pressure redeemed an otherwise concerning night for the hosts. Although Switzerland was denied a momentous victory, their impressive performance will give them great confidence heading into the knockout stages, where they will be a formidable opponent.
Analysis
Germany started Euro 2024 strongly, with convincing wins over Scotland and Hungary, but their recent draw against Switzerland highlighted areas needing improvement.
Tonight served as a reality check for Julian Nagelsmann’s side, as Switzerland’s superb performance comprehensively shut them down. Key issues emerged during the match:
1. Forward Role and Attack Dynamics: Kai Havertz, while talented, struggled as a lone striker. His skills lie more in ball control and link-up play rather than as a prolific scorer or target man. This lack of a traditional center-forward who can threaten in behind or hold up play was evident.
2. Midfield Creativity and Pace: Germany’s midfield, with players like Jamal Musiala, Florian Wirtz, Toni Kroos, and Ilkay Gundogan, faced challenges with predictability and speed. Musiala and Wirtz tend to drift centrally, reducing width and variety in attacking play. Kroos and Gundogan, though experienced and skillful, may struggle with the pace required at this level.
3. Tactical Adjustments: Nagelsmann may need to reconsider his team’s balance. Is there room for both Musiala and Wirtz, or should he opt for a winger to add pace and penetration? Can the midfield function optimally with two older players, or does it need younger, more dynamic options? The team’s current blend might take them far in the competition, but winning it may require a more versatile and balanced approach.
Addressing these issues could be crucial for Germany to progress deeper in Euro 2024 and potentially compete for the title.
Player of the Match: Manuel Akanji (Switzerland)
Manuel Akanji was instrumental in Switzerland’s impressive performance against Germany, earning him the Player of the Match award. He showed exceptional defensive prowess throughout the game, effectively covering behind, aggressively attacking the ball, and providing leadership to marshal his team’s back line. Akanji’s commanding presence played a crucial role in Switzerland’s solid defensive display, which nearly resulted in a significant victory over the Group A winners.
PLAYER RATINGS
Switzerland: Sommer 7, Schar 7, Akanji 8, Rodriguez 7, Widmer 6, Xhaka 8, Freuler 7, Aebischer 7, Ndoye 7, Embolo 7, Rieder 7. Subs: Vargas 6, Duah 6, Amdoni 6.
Germany: Neuer 6, Kimmich 5, Rudiger 6, Tah 6, Mittelstadt 6, Andrich 6, Kroos 6, Musiala 6, Gundogan 6, Wirtz 6, Havertz 6. Subs: Raum 7, Schlotterbeck 6, Beier 6, Sane 6, Fullkrug 7.