In Munich’s Allianz Arena, which is probably sold out with 69,000 spectators, for Flick and his team, unlike in England, it’s not about making amends. Because the performance in Bologna wasn’t that bad either. But there is still a lot at stake, also in terms of mood. “It is important that we take the next step,” emphasized the national coach: “Our requirement for ourselves is that we always look to make things better.”
After the performance against Italy, which DFB director Oliver Bierhoff described as “sluggish”, Thomas Müller also expressed very clear expectations. “Of course we have to throw everything into the balance to get a win. In Italy you might be able to say that based on the result, a 1-1 away is okay. But only if we follow up against England with a win,” said the Bayern striker.
As with all other teams in this intensive international phase, Flick will rotate. Midfielder Ilkay Gündogan from English champions Manchester City will probably be in the starting line-up, for Bayern Leroy Sane and Serge Gnabry, who were unconvincing in Bologna, Kai Havertz and Jamal Musiala could be the alternatives.
An “extremely strong opponent” is waiting for the DFB team
“I’m expecting an extremely strong opponent who is peppered with very, very high individual quality that is perhaps unparalleled at the moment,” said Gündogan, who knows the England pros very well. “It feels like” the British “could field three national teams”. Tottenham’s top scorer Harry Kane, who sealed Germany’s end and thus Jogi Löw’s farewell with the second goal in the 2021 European Championship round of 16 in the 2-0 win of the “Three Lions”, was certified by Flick as “world class”.
The English will be at their best in the Allianz Arena and have a lot to make up for. Because the defeat in Hungary provides additional sporting pressure. Because of the spectacular celebrations for the Queen’s 70th throne jubilee, the 0-1 in the media coverage on the island was discussed unusually briefly, but it would certainly be different in the event of a defeat against Germany.
Southgate asks for a good mood
“I knew before we started this block of four games that we were risking some painful results,” said team boss Gareth Southgate, who wants to keep up the positive mood after reaching the final at last year’s European Championship.
In addition to sporting matters, Southgate also worries about the behavior of the fans. He asked the almost 3,500 fans expected in Munich to be in a good mood. “We have no control over it. All we can ask is that our fans deliver,” said the England team boss.
Gesture against racism planned
In any case, his team will again protest against racism with a kneeling gesture at the beginning of the game and will be supported by their German colleagues. Gündogan announced that the hosts will also kneel.
In Budapest, the English were booed at the symbolic kneeling. “I have no idea why people are booing during this gesture,” Southgate said. His team will not stop because of this. “We also get on our knees to educate people around the world and raise awareness.”
