DFB Squad: Bullock Chain Revisited or a New Approach? 🇩🇪
Mats Hummels experienced the glory of becoming world champions with the "ox chain" in 2014. As Germany's central defenders focused on defense in Brazil, the team's offensive players thrived upfront. However, after conceding 20 goals in 10 international matches in 2023, Hummels remained cautious about implementing the strategy again.
In the three games under national coach Julian Nagelsmann, Germany conceded six goals. The 34-year-old Borussia Dortmund veteran mulled over the potential advantages and disadvantages of the "ox chain" tactic before the team's match against Austria on Tuesday (8:45 PM, Vienna).
"Ochsenkette, I'm not sure this would be a significant advantage or disadvantage right away," said Hummels. "However, it does describe the fact that these are defensive-minded players. It depends on how the team is constructed overall." He acknowledged that "different variants" can be employed, not limited to an "ox chain."
Nagelsmann's Options
In the draw against Turkey, Nagelsmann tried out various combinations to strengthen Germany's defense. He lined up Antonio Rüdiger and Jonathan Tah as central defenders, with Benjamin Henrichs on the right and Kai Havertz on the left, despite some defensive duties.
According to Austria coach Ralf Rangnick, Havertz was an "offensive joker" in possession, transitioning to attack when needed. Nagelsmann agreed that he wouldn't stray from the fundamental system, but changes could occur in defensive roles.
Perhaps Hummels, with his World Cup experience, would play a significant role in Germany's starting lineup against Austria. Rüdiger, known for his leadership, or Tah might move to the bench due to questionable performances against Turkey. All the mentioned defenders, including Niklas Süle and David Raum (Germany’s left-sided player), can provide crucial contributions to the team's shape while attempting to address the vulnerabilities in defense.
Germany's Practice and Balance
Hummels weighed in on improving Germany's defense, emphasizing the importance of training, playing together, and analyzing tapes. He acknowledged the team's strengths in attack and believed that a more balanced approach would make them truly great.
"Here, we have many excellent attacking players. It's quite possible we might win 3:2 instead of 1:0 at some point, and that would be just fine," said Hummels.
The challenge now is to find the right balance between defense and offense while maintaining Germany’s football identity. The "ox chain" might be an interesting reference from 2014, but with the tactical flexibility from Julian Nagelsmann, a new approach could be crucial to revitalizing Germany's defense.
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