Following a poor run of form recently, Germany finally registered a 2-1 win over World Cup runner-up France in a friendly match. The victory came after a disappointing 4-1 loss to Japan a few days earlier, leading to the dismissal of coach Hansi Flick.
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The win brings some relief to the team, especially considering Germany will host the European Championship next year. Thomas Muller scored an early goal while Leroy Sane added a late second on a counterattack. The result has now broken a five-game winless streak for the Germans. The search for a new permanent coach is on as they prepare to play the United States and Mexico.
During the match against France, Germany was led by a caretaker team comprising three individuals, including sporting director Rudi Voller. Voller had not taken charge of any game for 18 years. He was once Germany’s manager when they reached the 2002 World Cup final.
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France had not conceded a goal in their previous five games since losing the World Cup final to Argentina last year. However, Germany broke this streak by scoring in just the fourth minute. Thomas Muller, recalled to the squad, controlled a cross from Benjamin Henrichs and scored past goalkeeper Mike Maignan.
France had a potential penalty claim when Antonio Rudiger appeared to push Randal Kolo Muani to the ground in the penalty area in the 20th minute, but the referee chose not to award it. Aurelien Tchouameni had opportunities to score with two first-half headers from corners and a low shot in the 57th minute, which was saved.
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Leroy Sane extended Germany’s lead to 2-0 through a quick counterattack in the 87th minute but immediately fouled Eduardo Camavinga, conceding a penalty. Antoine Griezmann converted the opportunity.
Despite German’s impressive performance, there was concern over their captain Ilkay Gundogan. The midfielder was forced to leave the match in the 25th minute after landing on his back during a challenge.
