Germany took on Poland at the Stade de France in what was expected to be their toughest game of group stages.
A cautious performance from both sides meant that we witnessed the tournament’s first goalless draw. Neither team will be too disappointed with the shared points as it takes both level on four points at the top of Group C.
Germany began with a false nine formation, with Mario Götze starting in a central role but were largely ineffective until Joachim Löw changed it up in the second-half. THey were the more creative of the two sides, but it was Poland who had the better of the chances. Arkadiusz Milik, who was the match-winner in the last game, failed to add to his tally after he wasted a couple of fantastic chances.
Northern Ireland’s 2-0 win earlier in the day ensured that Ukraine would be the first team to confirm their elimination from the tournament, while the Green and White Army still hold hopes of qualifying for the next round.
Both teams will take the point
Overly-cautious or defensively solid? Both teams were not too keen to take the game to the opposition with majority of the battle taking place in the middle of the park. The Germans enjoyed more possession of the ball but lacked that final pass, much due to the fact that they did not have an out and out striker for most of the 90 minutes. The World Champions will know that they are capable of much more and with qualification to the knockout phase all but guaranteed, Löw might look to experiment a bit when his side take on Northern Ireland next week.
The White Eagles would have taken the point over the World Champions even if you offered it to them before kick-off. The Poles are nowhere near short on talent themselves and had they taken their chances might have even beaten Germany. They too are nearly qualified for the next round, but must look to put in one more big performance against the Ukrainians.
Germany’s striker problems
Many thought that Löw would alter his tactics in attack with Müller playing in the central role instead of Götze. But it was not meant to be and we once again saw Müller playing in a wide right position where he was completely invisible. Mario Gomez did come on later in the game and proved to be more of a target up front.
With qualification nearly settled, we may see a different Germany side face Northern Ireland in more of a traditional formation. If they are to go through to the knockout phase, Germany will need to be much more clinical in the final third.
Clean sheets emphasising defensive quality
After two games, both Germany and Poland have yet to concede a goal. They have defended with caution and have barely allowed their respective opponents any clear cut chances.
Adam Nawałka has set up a rigid back four for the Poles, who have worked in tandem so far. With Robert Lewandowski yet to get off the mark, Poland’s strength undoubtedly lies in their defence and Nawałka will need his back four to continue performing at the highest calibre if they are to be successful further on in the competition.
The Germans have also been pretty tight with their defending in the tournament. It will require either a mistake or a moment of magic to penetrate their strong back line but they must keep up their focus.
There is still one more hurdle for both teams to cross as they aim to cement their place in the next round of the competition.
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