Eleven assessed, nine confirmed: Nagelsmann maintains lineup doubts
Let's Chat About Footie, Mate!
Germany's head coach Julian Nagelsmann has spilled the beans on nine of the eleven starting spots for the Nations League semi-final against Portugal. The showdown is set for Wednesday, 21:00 CEST, broadcasted on ZDF and DAZN. Predictably, ol' Nagelsmann kept his cards close to his chest regarding the individual players, winking at the media during a press conference at the Munich smash-hit venue, the Allianz Arena.
One of the surefire starters is captain Joshua Kimmich, who'll be honoring his 100th international cap. Fellow teammates Marc-André ter Stegen and Leon Goretzka are also in the mix, with Goretzka commenting, "I've been keeping my eyes on the ball, mate," with a grin that spoke volumes.
Florian Wirtz has made the starting lineup, despite the ongoing million-pound transfer drama between Bayer Leverkusen and potential suitor FC Liverpool. Nagelsmann brushed off any concerns about Wirtz's focus, saying, "S playing footie, mate, not daydreaming about transfer fees." Wirtz himself seems enthused, itching to get on the pitch!
Newcomer Nick Woltemade has been putting in the hard yards during training and making a solid impression. While Nagelsmann hasn't yet confirmed Woltemade's starting spot, the coach did express his admiration.
Goretzka to Hunt for Trophy #2
With the German national team in the semi-finals for the first time in eight years since their last title at the 2017 Confederations Cup, Goretzka's eyes gleam with ambition. "Ask any competitor, and they want to win," says Goretzka, "It's about bloody time we secured another trophy, mate!"
The second semi-final will take place on Thursday, 21:00 CEST, between European champions Spain and title holders France in Stuttgart. The grand finale will be held on Sunday, 21:00 CEST, right here in Munich. So, keep it locked, footie fans!
P.S. In case you're curious, here's a sneaky peek at the starting lineup:
- Goalkeeper: Ter Stegen
- Defenders: Tah, Anton, Koch, Kimmich, Mittelstädt
- Midfielders: Pavlovic, Goretzka
- Forwards: Sane, Wirtz, Woltemade
Florian Wirtz is in the starting lineup, and Nick Woltemade also starts upfront.
Sports enthusiasts, brace yourselves for a thrilling European football match as Germany faces Portugal in the Nations League semi-final. With Leon Goretzka aiming for his second trophy, he’ll be joined by young talents Florian Wirtz and Nick Woltemade on the field.
