Just two games away from fulfilling a childhood dream. Germany's U21 national team is looking to secure a spot in the European Championships final this evening when they face Portugal (18:00 CEST). Horst Hrubesch's men are full of confidence, but also aware of their opponents' strengths. The teams’ journey from Prague to Olomouc yesterday went smoothly.
Germany's initial aim was to top Group A, as this would have allowed them to stay in Prague and in their familiar environment. A 1-1 draw with tournament hosts the Czech Republic in their final group match, however, meant they finished second, behind table toppers Denmark. As a result, the DFB teams' semifinal against Portugal will take place at the Ander Stadium in Olomouc tonight.
"Pleasant trip" to Olomouc
The DFB team completed their transit from Prague to Olomouc, roughly 210 km, via train on Friday, a change of scenery that was welcomed by everyone. "Our trip here was very pleasant and we were able to see a bit more of the country," said Julian Korb. Manager Horst Hrubesch agreed with his right back: "The trip allowed us to get out of our rut - a change of routine." He certainly won’t mind making the same trip back again, as the final on Tuesday is set to take place in Prague.
After their arrival in Olomouc, the team began their intensive preparations for the semi final. All players are fit and have great confidence and anticipation for the encounter with Portugal. "Being eliminated at this stage just doesn't make sense to us anymore," argued Leonardo Bittencourt and as a representative for the entire team he continued: "We desperately want to win the title."
Portugal's strengths
Everyone is fully aware that they face a stiff task in the semifinal with Portugal, who have impressed throughout this tournament with attractive and fluent attacking football, while also keeping a solid defence. Two draws and a win were enough for coach Rui Jorge's side to progress as group winners. However, Portugal have only scored two goals in three games so far, while the DFB team has already bagged five.
Assistant coach Thomas Nörenberg, however, is not convinced that Portugal are lacking in their attacking department: "Portugal have highly, technically skilled team and plenty of individual quality, especially in their attack. They create a lot of chances and probably should have scored a couple more goals during their group stage." Skipper Kevin Volland feels the same way about Germany's scoring efforts during the opening three games: "We have to take our chances as they come and show a better clinical touch in front of the goal. If we do that, we will win our games."
Despite the thorough preparation and analysis of opponents Portugal, the DFB team is also looking to fully focus on their own strengths. "We only look at our own game and our aim is to have Portugal adjust and not the other way around," explained coach Hrubesch. "We are not afraid of any opposition and we are a tough side to beat." Just two more games to go for the DFB youngsters, as they look to fulfil a childhood dream. One dream has already been realised as Germany's semifinal participation earned them a spot in the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio. Now there is a sense of hunger for more, as the EURO title beckons on the horizon.
