"DFB's triumph clouded by Giulia Gwinn's emotional runtime"
In a shocking turn of events during the first match of the Women's European Championship 2025, Germany's captain Giulia Gwinn was forced to leave the field in tears due to an apparent knee injury. The incident occurred in the 40th minute of the game, just behind the center line.
Gwinn's injury is feared to be a third ACL tear, although it's important to clarify that she has previously suffered two ACL injuries in 2020 and 2023. The full extent of the injury is yet to be determined, with an MRI scheduled for Saturday to evaluate the severity.
The team celebrated their opening win briefly, but the cheering ended quickly as the news of Gwinn's injury spread. Her parents, who are often present at her games, were visibly upset by the incident.
In Gwinn's absence, Carlotta Wamser, her backup, will have to step up. Wamser, who has only played two international games so far, initiated the second goal by leaving a Polish player behind at the corner flag and passing the ball to Brand, who set up the incoming Schüller. She also made her first assist in the game against Poland, passing the ball to Brand who scored the first goal.
Wamser is more comfortable in midfield, but she will now have to take on the captain's role. National coach Christian Wiegmann described the scene as a "shock." The early exit of Gwinn from the tournament is a significant loss for the DFB team, as she was their on-field captain.
Before the injury, Gwinn had made a spectacular save to prevent a potential equalizer by Polish star striker Ewa Pajor. Unfortunately, her first tournament game as captain ended prematurely due to the injury. Gwinn missed the 2023 World Cup due to her knee injuries, and her absence was felt then.
It's worth noting that Alexandra Popp, who ended her career for Germany, was succeeded by Gwinn as captain. Popp's legacy will continue to inspire Gwinn, and the team, as they navigate through this challenging time.
The DFB team will undoubtedly miss Gwinn's leadership and skills on the field, but they will rally together in her absence. The focus now shifts to Gwinn's recovery and the team's determination to continue their journey in the tournament.
The DFB team, in adherence to their community policy, extended their support to Giulia Gwinn during this challenging time. Meanwhile, as the team prepares to face subsequent challenges in the Women's European Championship 2025, Carlotta Wamser, who has demonstrated her potential through vocational training, will take on the captain's role on the field, much like the champions-league football players who seamlessly fill the shoes of their injured teammates in the European leagues.
