Juan Cuadrado netted a goal and provided an assist as Colombia triumphed over Germany with a 2-0 win in a friendly match, deepening the crisis surrounding the German team just one year before they host Euro 2024.
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This win for Colombia holds significant historical value as it marks their first-ever triumph over Germany, a team that has previously secured four World Cup titles. However, Germany’s current form suggests a decline in their ability to secure victories.
Disgruntled German supporters expressed their disappointment by whistling at the team following this latest setback, which comes after a 1-0 defeat to Poland and a 3-3 draw with Ukraine within the past week.
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Germany’s struggles extend beyond this friendly match, as they experienced a disappointing exit from the group stage in the previous World Cup. Under the guidance of coach Hansi Flick, the team has only managed to win three out of their 11 matches this season. These victories came in an ultimately futile World Cup encounter against Costa Rica, and two friendly matches against Peru and Oman.
Flick had hoped to conclude the season on a positive note and emphasised the importance of securing a victory before the match began.
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In response to the recent disappointments against Poland and Ukraine, Flick once again made several changes to the team. He opted for Ilkay Gundogan, a Champions League winner, as captain instead of Joshua Kimmich, while Marius Wolf, Robin Gosens, Leon Goretzka, and Leroy Sane were brought in to replace Thilo Kehrer, Benjamin Henrichs, Jonas Hofmann, and Florian Wirtz.
Colombia controlled the game after play resumed and toyed with Germany’s lacklustre defence to create scoring opportunities. Despite a crucial tackle from Malick Thiaw to deny Luis Diaz, who was poised for a goal, and an impressive save from Marc-Andre ter Stegen to stop Yerry Mina’s shot, Colombia remained the stronger side.
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In the 54th minute, Cuadrado delivered a perfect cross that Diaz headed past ter Stegen, putting Colombia in the lead. Flick introduced Kimmich for the final 15 minutes, but the Bayern Munich midfielder conceded a penalty due to a handball. Cuadrado confidently converted the penalty in the 82nd minute, sealing the victory for Colombia.
Earlier, Germany had unveiled its Euro 2024 mascot.
