Too many flopped opportunities and too many close calls, but in the end, Germany walked off the pitch with another victory in the bag, this time over Ghana. Leading up to the FIFA World Cup, the squad will need to build up some confidence, and perhaps this was the game to show them their weak spots. Let’s dive into a quick analysis.
Jersey Swap: Alexander Djiku
The Black Stars silenced many critics tonight after a major loss to Austria. Under Otto Addo, the team showcased a disciplined defensive block and a lightning-fast transition game that nearly spoiled Germany’s night. Part of that defensive block was Alexander Djiku, who had a massive number of blocks, tackles, clearances, recoveries, and interceptions. Having played the full 90, the Spartak Moscow center-back was Ghana’s rock for the night.
Der Kaiser: Nico Schlotterbeck
The Borussia Dortmund man was the standout in a backline that had to deal with significant pace. He was tasked with neutralizing Ghana’s counter-attacking threats and did so with tactical discipline. Jonathan Tah was missing tonight, as was Josha Vagnoman and the other defenders, and Joshua Kimmich frequently inverted into midfield (not to mention that horrific attempt at goal). With a high rate of not only accurate but also progressive passing, Schlotterbeck takes this cake.
Fußballgott: Lennart Karl
It may be a slight bit of author bias, but the Bayern Munich youngster was one of the best on the pitch tonight. Despite having played only 45 minutes, and putting aside that failed finish, Karl was a great presence for Germany. Florian Wirtz did a good job on the attacking midfield side of things, but Karl deserves the shout out after today’s game. He had a great game against Switzerland, and brought that same energy into Stuttgart this evening.
Der Bomber: Florian Wirtz
Fresh off a masterclass against Switzerland, Wirtz proved he is currently the heartbeat of this team. Though he hit the woodworks early, his ability to manipulate tight spaces in the final third was unmatched. The Liverpool ace dictated the tempo, eventually providing the creative spark that tired out Ghana’s defensive block. Kai Havertz seemed to struggle to find clear sights of goal against a deep defense, and Nick Woltemade wasn’t on his best form tonight, despite putting on a good show. In the end, Wirtz came out on top.
Meister of the Match: Deniz Undav
When the game looked destined for a 1-1 draw, Undav’s instincts proved the difference. Coming off the bench, the VfB Stuttgart man provided a different profile than the starters and found the pocket of space required to slot home the 88th-minute winner. It seemed to be that Undav is the only real striker Germany had on the pitch tonight, and playing at the MHPArena, his home stadium, made the winning goal even more poetic. He is currently the most clinical finisher for Germany at the moment, and if the World Cup started right now, it would be hard to keep him out of the starting XI.
