Youth squad seizes monumental victory in semi-finals.
Rematch in the EM Semi-Finals: Germany vs France
It's crunch time for the German U21 team as they clash with France in the semi-final of the European Championship (EM). Coming off a grueling quarter-final against Italy, is Nick Woltemade's squad ready to rumble?
Getting back in the game after injury is no easy feat, but it seems "mausetot" is making a comeback! The medical team reports the injured player is recovering swiftly, giving hope for the semi-final showdown. However, the final decision depends on his fitness in the coming days.
According to team captain Eric Martel, they're prepared to shake off any mishaps and push through with a vengeance. After clinching a nail-biting 3:2 win in extra time against Italy, France, with Mathys Tel in their ranks, will undoubtedly pose a formidable challenge. The semi-final kicks off Wednesday (9:00 PM EST/Sat.1).
On Fire in Extra Time
The 23-year-old Woltemade stepped up big-time, scoring Germany's equalizing goal (68th minute) off a corner and setting up the winning goal by Mainz substitute Nelson Weiper (87th). Italy managed to push for extra time in the final moments, but two red cards soon followed, and they were sent packing.
The hero of the hour was Freiburg's Merlin Röhl, who came on as a substitute and provided the assist. Hailing from Kümmersbruck in the Oberpfalz region, Nene Brown claimed the glory.
Tired and drained, Gladbach's tireless runner Rocco Reitz just wants a cold pizza and some rest, while Woltemade is probably already snuggled up in bed.
Heading for the Final
Coach Antonio Di Salvo canceled training for Monday night and is focusing on regeneration for the team ahead of their trip to Kosice, Slovakia, for the semi-final. The desire to snag a fourth title after 2009, 2017, and 2021 is huge.
"The desire is huge, of course. We're already in the semi-finals," said the 46-year-old coach. "We want to reach the final."
As if rumors of a potential transfer to FC Bayern Munich weren't enough distractions, Nick Woltemade must stay focused on the task at hand: securing the U21 EM final. What does the talented striker think about all the buzz around him?
"I focus on the game, where my attention belongs. The Championship matters most," said Woltemade.
Stay tuned for updates on Woltemade's quest for the final and the latest on the injured "mausetot's" recovery. Godspeed, boys!
Germany could shift their focus to the football field as they prepare for the Champions League, with Nick Woltemade looking to score again just like in the EM semi-finals. Meanwhile, French squad Mathys Tel and his teammates will aim to prove themselves in European leagues following their challenging victory against Italy.