Loew looks for solution at backline
Print Edition
GERMANY’S defense is Joachim Loew’s biggest headache ahead of Euro 2016 after it conceded four goals in two matches with the right mix still eluding the World Cup-winning coach.
The midfield is brimming with talent and Loew is spoilt for choice with more than half a dozen world class players including Mesut Ozil, Toni Kroos, Sami Khedira and Ilkay Guendogan.
A versatile frontline is equally gifted with Tuesday’s 4-1 demolition of Italy showing its attacking power, with Thomas Mueller able to play in almost every forward position and Marco Reus and Mario Gomez enjoying fine seasons with their clubs.
But Loew’s experimental backline against England conceded three goals on Saturday as it blew a two-goal lead and ended up losing 2-3 in front of a disappointed home crowd in Berlin.
The emphatic victory over Italy restored some pride but the Germans have now conceded six goals in their last three internationals, losing two of them.
“We lacked focus and discipline against England,” said Loew. “We did it better against Italy. When we play well we can achieve things but we need to work on some issues such as our defensive operation.”
With central defenders Jerome Boateng and Benedikt Hoewedes injured, Loew has few choices to partner Mats Hummels. Antonio Ruediger and Jonathan Tah struggled against England.
It is unclear whether Boateng and Hoewedes will be fit for the finals in France but they will have little match practice if they are included for the Euros which start on June 10.
Loew must also find a suitable right back, a position occupied for years by Philipp Lahm, with Emre Can looking like more of an emergency solution.
A string of players have been deployed since former captain Lahm’s international retirement after Germany’s 2014 World Cup triumph but Loew has yet to adequately fill the void with just over two months to go until the tournament kicks off.
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