What’s the news from the Germany squad? How are the nerves? Is everyone feeling optimistic? A few hours before the European Championship qualification match against Scotland in Glasgow (20:45 CEST), assistant manager Thomas Schneider talks to DFB.
DFB.de: Mr. Schneider, a win tonight and an Ireland loss would see you qualify for the tournament this summer. Does this increase the excitement before the match?
Thomas Schneider: I'm really looking forward to the game tonight, as are the players. I also can’t wait to experience the atmosphere at Hampden Park, as Scottish fans are known for their emotion, enthusiasm and sheer passion. This is essentially Scotland’s last chance for qualification tonight, so it will be particularly loud. We want to make sure we come out on top.
DFB.de: Are there any updates in terms of players? Is everyone fit?
Schneider: Yes. Everyone took part in the final training session, and no one had any problems. The team is playing very well together and we are aware that it will be hard work against Scotland.
DFB.de: Scottish football has changed recently. It’s been clear in their qualification campaign that they are now using more short passes, and are looking to play their way out of difficult situations, especially compared to previous years.
Schneider: They have changed their style of play with the ball, that’s true. The ‘kick and rush’ type of football is no longer part of their game. That doesn’t mean much for tonight’s match however. Their loss against Georgia has changed a lot, as they are now in a very tight spot. It’s not inconceivable that they may adapt to this high pressure, and revert to a high physicality, long ball style of play.
DFB.de: What does that mean for the Germany team?
Schneider: We have to be ready. And we will be. We have spoken to the players about what kind of game to expect tonight. Of course, the structure of the game will change if the ball doesn’t leave our half. We have to make sure we use the space well, and stay tight to the opposition players. Generally though, we want to dictate the tempo of the game ourselves, and not have to always react to what the opposition does.
DFB.de: History shows that Germany has often found it difficult in Scotland. Only one match out of six has ended in a win. Does this have any impact on tonight?
Schneider: Not at all. The Scottish are not going to give us anything at home, we know that. As a team, we have the mentality and the class to find solutions to any problem or challenges that may arise throughout the 90 minutes. We’re very respectful of the opposition, but we also have a lot of confidence it our ability.
created by mmc/wh
What’s the news from the Germany squad? How are the nerves? Is everyone feeling optimistic? A few hours before the European Championship qualification match against Scotland in Glasgow (20:45 CEST), assistant manager Thomas Schneider talks to DFB.
DFB.de: Mr. Schneider, a win tonight and an Ireland loss would see you qualify for the tournament this summer. Does this increase the excitement before the match?
Thomas Schneider: I'm really looking forward to the game tonight, as are the players. I also can’t wait to experience the atmosphere at Hampden Park, as Scottish fans are known for their emotion, enthusiasm and sheer passion. This is essentially Scotland’s last chance for qualification tonight, so it will be particularly loud. We want to make sure we come out on top.
DFB.de: Are there any updates in terms of players? Is everyone fit?
Schneider: Yes. Everyone took part in the final training session, and no one had any problems. The team is playing very well together and we are aware that it will be hard work against Scotland.
DFB.de: Scottish football has changed recently. It’s been clear in their qualification campaign that they are now using more short passes, and are looking to play their way out of difficult situations, especially compared to previous years.
Schneider: They have changed their style of play with the ball, that’s true. The ‘kick and rush’ type of football is no longer part of their game. That doesn’t mean much for tonight’s match however. Their loss against Georgia has changed a lot, as they are now in a very tight spot. It’s not inconceivable that they may adapt to this high pressure, and revert to a high physicality, long ball style of play.
DFB.de: What does that mean for the Germany team?
Schneider: We have to be ready. And we will be. We have spoken to the players about what kind of game to expect tonight. Of course, the structure of the game will change if the ball doesn’t leave our half. We have to make sure we use the space well, and stay tight to the opposition players. Generally though, we want to dictate the tempo of the game ourselves, and not have to always react to what the opposition does.
DFB.de: History shows that Germany has often found it difficult in Scotland. Only one match out of six has ended in a win. Does this have any impact on tonight?
Schneider: Not at all. The Scottish are not going to give us anything at home, we know that. As a team, we have the mentality and the class to find solutions to any problem or challenges that may arise throughout the 90 minutes. We’re very respectful of the opposition, but we also have a lot of confidence it our ability.
