20/06/2026 10:16 - Deportes
Julian Nagelsmann hablando en conferencia de prensa previa al partido de Alemania contra Costa de Marfil en el Mundial 2026.
The German National Team is finalizing preparations for its second match of the World Cup 2026, set to take place this Saturday, June 21 at the Toronto Stadium. In the pre-match press conference, manager Julian Nagelsmann provided a detailed analysis of their next opponent, Ivory Coast, urging caution and respect.
Nagelsmann described the upcoming duel as "exciting" and praised the tournament facilities, though he remained tight-lipped about potential changes to the starting lineup. "If we change the alignment, there is always a reason. We will see tomorrow," the coach stated, revealing that the team has worked on various tactical scenarios throughout the week.
The German strategist highlighted the unpredictability of the African side. "We don't know one hundred percent what they will do. It could be a 4-3-3 or something completely different. We have prepared for different scenarios," he noted.
He specifically highlighted the physical condition and speed of the Ivorian attackers. Nagelsmann also pointed out the threat posed by Nicolas Pépé, noting that in the previous match he "was everywhere," requiring a specific defensive response.
"They are physically very strong, they have a great defense and a lot of speed in the three attacking positions."
When asked about the criticism directed at Leroy Sané following the World Cup debut, Nagelsmann was adamant in his defense. He felt the evaluations were unfair and expressed his personal annoyance at how his players are sometimes treated by the media.
"I think it's okay that players aren't hammered too much. What was written after that game was not justified. It doesn't bother him, but it bothers me, because I don't like those things being written about my players," the coach concluded firmly.
Defender Jonathan Tah admitted that the match will have an added emotional component due to his family roots, as his father is Ivorian. "It's going to be something special. It will definitely be more extraordinary than against any other team," Tah acknowledged.
Meanwhile, goalkeeper Manuel Neuer, at 40 years old, is on the verge of reaching a historic milestone. If he plays on Saturday, he will participate in his 21st World Cup match, a record no other goalkeeper has achieved. "I am very proud to play with him. It's very good to have him on the team," Tah said of his teammate.
Nagelsmann also discussed the utility of hydration breaks, common in tournaments with high temperatures. He explained that they serve to replenish energy and give quick instructions, though they don't allow for major tactical changes. "Winning is always the best recipe. We are not here on vacation," the German coach concluded.
Source: TyC Sports
Alfredo S. Quiroga
