Nagelsmann urge players to do more after Italy draw in Dortmund

Germany’s 3-3 draw with Italy in the second leg of their Nations League quarter-final was entertaining, but improvements must be made, said head coach Julian Nagelsmann. 

Having won the first leg 2-1 in Milan, Germany appeared to be cruising into the semifinals of the competition after leading by three goals heading into the second half. 

Joshua Kimmich’s penalty was followed up with strikes from Jamal Musiala and Tim Kleindienst, but Luciano Spalletti’s side roared back after the break. 

Moise Kean scored a brace, and Giacomo Raspadori’s leveler in the fifth minute of second-half stoppage time made things interesting, but Germany held on for the win. 

The hosts had dominated the opening period, registering 18 attempts and restricting Italy to three shots in the first half. 

However, the Azzurri responded brilliantly, outperforming Germany, although Nagelsmann was not disappointed by the overall display. 

Speaking in a post-match interview, Nagelsmann revealed it was fun as he has always wanted the team’s all-round play to be entertaining.

“The first half was very entertaining. It was also very interesting in the second half, but it was just a bit too exciting at the end.

“The team is giving everything. This is perhaps the most important development in recent years.”

Nagelsmann went on to describe the first half as “very impressive” and the best Germany have played during his tenure.

The win means Germany qualify for the finals of the Nations League, which will be hosted in Germany. 

They will face Portugal in the first semifinal at the Allianz Arena in Munich, while Spain and France face off in the other game in Stuttgart. If Germany wins, it will set up a final once again in Munich. 

 

Germany also found out their World Cup Qualifying group ahead of beginning their quest to make it to the World Cup next year. For Germany, qualifying will begin later this year.