Germany’s national football team is focused on securing the top position in their group during the tournament, with a pivotal match against Bosnia and Herzegovina approaching. Currently leading with ten points, Germany aims for a victory that would ensure their advancement and a favorable playoff draw. Despite facing injury challenges, head coach Julian Nagelsmann emphasizes the importance of maintaining performance and player management. The match is set for Saturday in Freiburg, with fans able to follow live coverage.
German National Team Aims for Group Victory
The German national football team is set on clinching the top spot in their group during the ongoing tournament. A crucial win against Bosnia and Herzegovina is essential for the DFB team to solidify their position, having already secured a place in the quarter-finals.
With the match scheduled for Saturday in Freiburg at 8:45 PM, fans can follow the action live through various coverage options. Achieving victory against Bosnia would not only guarantee first place in Group 3 of League A but also set the stage for their upcoming clash with Hungary in Budapest just three days later.
Current Standings and Team Challenges
Germany currently leads their group with ten points, leaving the Netherlands and Hungary trailing with five points each, while Bosnia and Herzegovina holds just one point. A group win is crucial, as it may lead to a more favorable opponent in the playoff draw slated for November 22.
However, the journey won’t be straightforward, as several players are dealing with injuries following a demanding schedule. Head coach Julian Nagelsmann acknowledged the situation, emphasizing the need to balance player workloads: “We will take the situation in the clubs into account and not push every player who already plays a lot at the club through two 90-minute matches,” he stated in an interview. The approach will also depend on the outcome of the Bosnia match, with Nagelsmann expressing confidence in a win that could allow for adjustments in the lineup against Hungary.
Notable absences include Deniz Undav and Angelo Stiller, both sidelined due to injuries. Furthermore, regulars such as Marc-André ter Stegen and Niclas Füllkrug will also miss this match. Despite these challenges, all players except the suspended Nico Schlotterbeck are available for selection.
As the team prepares for this significant match, Nagelsmann emphasizes the importance of maintaining their successful trajectory and delivering “attractive football” in their final home game of the year. Players like Leroy Sané, Julian Brandt, and Felix Nmecha will look to make their mark as they return to the squad.
Goalkeeper Oliver Baumann is ready to make his second international appearance, having been chosen over Alexander Nübel. Returning to Freiburg, where his journey began, is particularly meaningful for Baumann, who shared his pride and gratitude at the opportunity.
Nübel is anticipated to take the field during the final group match against Hungary, as confirmed by Nagelsmann. Additionally, the coach revealed plans to conclude the goalkeeper rotation in March for the quarter-finals of the Nations League. Stefan Ortega Morena, who has yet to make an appearance for the DFB team, is the third goalkeeper in the current squad.
Marc-André ter Stegen, though injured, attended the final training session and continues to play a vital role within the team. National coach Nagelsmann expressed appreciation for ter Stegen’s presence, while sports director Rudi Völler highlighted the importance of supporting the injured goalkeeper.
Five weeks after Germany’s previous victory against Bosnia in Zenica, the team enters the match as favorites. Edin Dzeko, the veteran star of the Bosnia and Herzegovina squad, remains a key player to watch, having scored the equalizer in the last encounter. Nagelsmann anticipates a competitive match in Freiburg but expects Germany to maintain control for significant periods.
Projected Lineups
Germany: Baumann (TSG Hoffenheim) – Kimmich (FC Bayern Munich), Tah (Bayer Leverkusen), Rüdiger (Real Madrid), Mittelstädt (VfB Stuttgart) – Andrich (Bayer Leverkusen), Groß (Borussia Dortmund) – Gnabry (FC Bayern Munich), Havertz (FC Arsenal), Musiala (FC Bayern Munich) – Kleindienst (Borussia Mönchengladbach)
Bosnia and Herzegovina: Vasilj (FC St. Pauli) – Bicakcic (Eintracht Braunschweig), Barisic (FC Basel), Mujakic (Partizan Belgrade) – Gazibegovic (Sturm Graz), Burnic (Karlsruher SC), Gigovic (Holstein Kiel), Huseinbasic (1. FC Köln), Dedic (RB Salzburg) – Dzeko (Fenerbahce Istanbul), Demirovic (VfB Stuttgart)