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Germany faces Paraguay in the first knockout round, with coach Julian Nagelsmann insisting his focus is solely on the team and success on the pitch...
Germany will face Paraguay in their first World Cup knockout match on Monday night. A defeat in their final group game against Ecuador has dampened the optimism that had built up after two early wins at the tournament, adding to the pressure on the team and coach Julian Nagelsmann.
Elimination at this stage against Paraguay, considered one of the least favored teams, would be a huge disappointment for the German national team and would further increase criticism of the coach, following their elimination in the quarterfinals of the European Championship held in Germany.
At the pre-match press conference, BILD newspaper asked Nagelsmann if he felt he had something to prove to critics as national team coach.
"Really, I only think about the team and our success. I want the very good spirit we have within the group to be reflected on the pitch and we do everything to win the game. I don't feel like I have to prove anything to anyone, except the players. My job is to be emotionally involved on the sidelines, just as I ask of them, and to help them as much as possible during the game," he declared.
Nagelsmann added that the fans' support and positive comments after the match are welcome, but stressed that the priority remains the best possible preparation.
"We are happy when the fans support us. We are also happy when experts or critics say after the match that we played well. However, above all we aim to prepare as well as possible and be able to play a good match," said the coach.
The match against Paraguay will be crucial for Germany's continued progress in the tournament and an important test for Nagelsmann in leading the national team.
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