Germany's U19’s have lost their first two group games at the European Championship, meaning that the most they can hope for when they face Austria later today (kick off 19:30 CEST) is to secure third place to set up a play-off with Group B's third-place side. A draw or a defeat would see Germany eliminated from the tournament.
A play-off victory would thus ensure Germany's participation at next year's U20 World Cup in South Korea, and head coach Guido Streichsbier’s side is eager to at least secure this minimum goal. The semi-final or final are no longer attainable after their 4-3 defeat to Portugal. "There is still something worthy to fight for," explained Streichsbier ahead of their match-up with Austria. "Taking part in next year's World Cup is incredibly important for the development of the team. Many of the lads are still developing their skills. In one year they will have progressed further and they can certainly play a better role than during this European Championship."
Streichsbier: "As hosts we have a responsibility"
All attention has now been directed on achieving this goal. The medical department has been working hard late into the night and the coaching staff has been analysing Austria intensely. "We made it clear to the players that they have a responsibility at this tournament since we are the hosts. But like I already said, it's a huge opportunity for them to take part in a World Cup," said Streichsbier.
The message seems to have been made very clear – for example, midfielder Benjamin Henrichs of Bayer 04 Leverkusen is prepared for a hard-fought encounter. "Both teams desperately want to make it to the World Cup next year. It will be a good game." The 19-year-old should know having played against Austria with the U18 side under Streichsbier last year. "They play a very aggressive and rustic style," explained the Leverkusen player. "We have to accept the fight but at the same time remain calm."
Track back with pace after losing possession
Henrichs appears to be aware what Germany have lacked in their first two group games. Against Italy, they were caught off guard from a counter attack, while against Portugal they failed to show much solid defensive organisation. "We should've covered defensive areas better with intense runs. We didn't and it cost us two goals," explained Streichsbier. The U19 coach already knows what has to improve: "After losing possession, we have to track back at high pace, otherwise we will get punished again."
It won't be an easy feat against Austria, who have improved steadily over the last few years and are now regular features at major tournaments – a fact that hasn't gone unnoticed amongst Bundesliga talent scouts. Stefan Peric, Patrick Hasenhüttl (both VfB Stuttgart) and Stefan Posch (TSG 1899 Hoffenheim) are all active in Germany.
Austria with some solid performances
Austria managed 1-1 draws against both Portugal and Italy, putting in convincing displays with their variable midfield play. When in possession, they switch to a system with three players at the back, while their full backs take on attacking positions. Germany will have to prevent Austria from finding their rhythm and use their chances clinically in order to secure third place and a play-off match for the World Cup.