The stakes are raised
The stakes are raised
Germany’s U21s play their second group-stage game against Denmark on Wednesday. Mitchell Weiser knows that they can do better than they did on Sunday.
Berlin – The schedule of the U21 European Championship in Poland requires some getting used to, particularly as the participating nations are put under a lot of pressure very quickly. 12 teams face each other over three groups – but only the three group-winners and the best second-placed team will reach the semi-final. “You can’t lose,” said manager Stefan Kuntz prior to his side’s opening fixture. His boys took note of what he said publically, as they went on to live up to expectations by beating the Czech Republic 2-0.
Berlin – The schedule of the U21 European Championship in Poland requires some getting used to, particularly as the participating nations are put under a lot of pressure very quickly. 12 teams face each other over three groups – but only the three group-winners and the best second-placed team will reach the semi-final. “You can’t lose,” said manager Stefan Kuntz prior to his side’s opening fixture. His boys took note of what he said publically, as they went on to live up to expectations by beating the Czech Republic 2-0.
He says...
[>]We need to play with less fear than we did against the Czechs – so fewer long balls and better build-up[<]
Patience and composure
Weiser was asked for his thoughts on the second game of the group against Denmark on Wednesday (21/06/17) at 20:45 CEST: “We need to play with less fear than we did against the Czechs – so fewer long balls and better build-up. Above all, we just have to take our chances,” said the Hertha right-back, most likely referring to a chance he himself missed, as well as teammate Davie Selke’s penalty that was saved. Whether vice-captain Stark will be available for the game remains to be seen, and a decision on his availability will be made very late on. “One of the Czechs fell on my back shortly before the end of the game. I’ve got a bruise on my rib. We’ll see if I’m fit to play before the game,” said the versatile defender.
Stark’s absence doesn’t change Germany’s goals for the game. A win against the Scandinavians, who lost their first game to Italy 2-0, is practically required should they want to have a chance of topping the group when it comes to their final group-stage game against Italy on Saturday (24/06/17).
| Date | Player(s) | Match | Result | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sunday | 18/06/17 | Stark | Weiser | Selke | Germany - Czech Republic | 2-0 |
| Wednesday | 21/06/17 | Stark | Weiser | Selke | Germany - Denmark | 3-0 |
| Saturday | 24/06/17 | Stark | Weiser | Selke | Germany - Italy | 0-1 |