Initial gathering: German national team expresses profound disappointment - Initial gathering: palpable exasperation within the German soccer team (DFB) group
In the aftermath of a 4-1 defeat to Sweden in the UEFA Women's EURO 2025, the German women's football team is set to address its defensive issues following a crisis meeting in Zürich.
Coached by Christian Wueck in his first tournament with the team, Germany displayed a chaotic defensive performance, with key players such as Rebecca Knaak, Minge, and Sarai Linder struggling to keep up with the pace, and Ann-Katrin Berger making two mistakes, albeit none of which led to goals. The team's vulnerabilities were further exposed when youngster Carlotta Wamser was shown a red card for deflecting a ball on the goal line with her hand.
Wueck, aware of the need for improvement, is likely to focus on shoring up the defence, particularly in light of Wamser's suspension for one game. Key changes Wueck might implement include personnel adjustments, tactical changes, defensive organisation, and leadership and experience.
Personnel adjustments could see Wueck rotate his defensive players to improve stability, as demonstrated by his substitution of captain Giulia Gwinn with Wamser at right back before the Denmark game. Tactical changes could involve a more compact defensive shape or more cautious positioning to prevent being overrun, as the team struggled against organised defensive blocks like Denmark.
Defensive organisation is another area Wueck may emphasise, with the aim of improving Germany's defensive coordination and resilience to withstand counterattacks and maintain positional discipline. Berger, who has been criticised for her risky dribblings, may also be encouraged to focus more on her goalkeeping duties.
Leadership and experience will also play a crucial role, with Giulia Gwinn, a defensive leader who also contributes offensively, expected to be a key figure if fit. Gwinn's expertise in reading the game and providing stability at the back will be vital in helping the team recover from their recent setbacks.
The German team is scheduled to play in Basel on Saturday at 21:00, with the semi-final, if they advance, taking place in Zurich on July 23. Midfielder Sjoeke Nusken has reported that there will be changes, and Wueck will be hoping that these adjustments will help the team regain its form and secure a place in the latter stages of the tournament.
The community policy of the German women's football team might address the chaotic defensive performance during UEFA Women's EURO 2025, with a focus on sports like football and European-leagues such as the premier-league. Following the crisis meeting in Zürich, coach Christian Wueck is expected to implement new employment policies, requiring personnel adjustments, tactical changes, improved defensive organisation, and enhanced leadership and experience within the team.