📷 Image Credits: Goal.com
The Euro 2024 Group A encounter between Germany and Switzerland provided a thrilling spectacle as Niclas Fullkrug’s late goal salvaged a crucial 1-1 draw for the hosts, securing their top spot in the group. The Frankfurt Arena witnessed drama as the Swiss took a shock lead through Dan Ndoye in the first half, putting the Germans on the back foot. However, it was super-sub Fullkrug who came to the rescue with a fantastic header to equalize, ensuring Germany finished atop the group.
Despite the result, Germany’s performance was not at its best, with several players struggling to make an impact on the game. Manuel Neuer had a decent outing in goal, making a crucial save to deny Granit Xhaka, earning a rating of 6.5. Joshua Kimmich made some attacking runs but was wasteful with his crosses, receiving a rating of 7. Antonio Rudiger was solid at the back, winning duels and making key tackles, but missed a chance and ended with a rating of 6.
Jonathan Tah had a mixed game, receiving a yellow card and being substituted in the hour mark, while Mittelstaedt had a decent outing before being replaced by coach Julian Nagelsmann. In midfield, Toni Kroos orchestrated several moves for Germany, providing decent crosses but saw no end product, earning a rating of 7. Ilkay Gundogan had an underwhelming performance, overshadowed by the Swiss midfielders, receiving a rating of 5.
The offensive line was led by Florian Wirtz, who struggled to break through the Swiss defense, creating one big chance that went begging. Kai Havertz had a frustrating day, failing to convert his opportunities, while youngster Jamal Musiala tried his best without much success, creating chances but lacking end product. The game changer, Fullkrug, made a significant impact off the bench, scoring a crucial equalizer with a fantastic header, earning a rating of 8.5.
David Raum played a crucial role in the goal, providing the assist for Fullkrug, and received a rating of 8 for his attacking threat from the left-back position. Leroy Sane, Nico Schlotterbeck, and Maximilian Beier also made substitute appearances for Germany, as they secured their top spot in Group A.
Overall, Germany’s performance against Switzerland highlighted their resilience and determination to secure a crucial point in the Euro 2024 campaign. Fullkrug’s heroics steered them to the top of the group, setting the stage for the knockout stages of the tournament.
