Prediction of Germany's Performance in the European Cup
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The current German team is preparing to gallop onto the upcoming European Cup stage with a fresh attitude. With consecutive victories over France and the Netherlands in warm-up matches, this football powerhouse, which has been dormant for many years, seems to be experiencing a revival. With talents like Wirtz, Musiala, Sané, and Havertz emerging, what kind of performance can we expect from the German team in the European Cup?
Historical Performance in the European Cup:
As a top-tier veteran team, Germany's history in the European Cup is illustrious enough, having won the championship three times in 1972, 1980, and 1996. However, it's been nearly 30 years since their last triumph. In 1996, Bierhoff helped Germany win the European Cup with a golden goal. Since then, in the peak years from 2008 to 2016, they secured one runner-up and two third-place finishes. As the host this time, Germany urgently needs a European Cup championship to prove themselves!
Team's Current Situation:
Until the end of last year, hardly anyone considered Germany as a favorite for this European Cup. After all, memories of their humiliating group stage exit in the previous World Cup were still fresh, not to mention their 1-4 defeat to Japan at the end of last year. However, the situation has completely changed after their recent two warm-up matches! In March, Germany first defeated the European Cup favorites France away, then triumphed over another traditional powerhouse, the Netherlands, at home. Such performances have reignited belief in Germany's championship potential, although most fans still favor France or England to win the title.
Projected Starting Lineup:
Due to their excellent performances in the March warm-up matches and with less than three months left until the European Cup, it's unlikely that Germany's starting lineup will change much from those matches. It's projected to be a 4-2-3-1 formation. Neuer is likely to return as the goalkeeper, with Mitrechter as the left-back and Kimmich on the right. The center-back pairing would consist of Real Madrid's Rudiger and Leverkusen's standout performer, Tah. In midfield, Kroos's return is crucial, alongside Leverkusen's Aranguiz. Up front, the young duo of Wirtz and Musiala, supported by Gündogan, form a formidable midfield. As for the striker, Havertz from Arsenal will likely start as a false nine, with Fekir from Dortmund as a backup. Experienced players like Müller and Stuttgart's Endafu could also serve as surprise options off the bench.
Team's Head Coach: Nagelsmann
Nagelsmann, who has been coaching for almost ten years, is only 36 years old this year. Although his coaching stint at Bayern wasn't particularly successful, it was better than his predecessor. Whether he can lead Germany to revival in the European Cup this summer might be a defining moment in his career! If he manages to win the championship, he'll become another legendary coach. However, if Germany gets eliminated in the Round of 16, he might fade from mainstream coaching.
Prediction for Team's Future: At least reaching the semifinals
As the host, Germany has drawn a moderately tough group. While Switzerland, Scotland, and Hungary are not weak opponents, their strength is comparable, making it less likely for other teams to snatch the top spot from Germany. If Germany tops the group, they will face the runner-up of Group C in the Round of 16, likely either Denmark or Serbia. Although it won't be easy, home advantage should favor Germany.
Assuming they reach the quarterfinals, they will likely face Spain or Italy. Considering the energy exerted in the group stage, Germany might has the upper hand. As for the semifinals, anything can happen. In summary, as the host, Germany has a good chance of reaching the semifinals. Their probability of winning the championship might not be as high as England or France, but it's definitely not low!
