Germany's national coach Julian Nagelsmann attributed his team's 2-1 loss to Portugal in the UEFA Nations League semifinals not to missing key players, but rather to a lack of intensity in possession and pressing. He pointed out that the team failed to control the game or effectively pressure Portugal's technically skilled players. This defeat serves as a critical learning experience for Germany, indicating that they must address these issues before the 2026 World Cup to compete with top international teams more effectively.
"If you're playing man-to-man and individual players aren't giving 100 percent, aren't pressing, then you're outnumbered," explained the national coach.
"We have a few of those too, but the Portuguese have six or seven," Nagelsmann explained, emphasizing the technical differences between the two teams.
"When that edge is missing, it becomes difficult to keep up with top teams," highlighting the importance of maintaining intensity and focus.
"It's a good learning experience from which a lot can be taken," said the 37-year-old acknowledging the lessons from the defeat.
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