| In their last game against Sweden, it was clear from the first minute that the German team was on fire. The team pushes each other, that much is clear. Unfortunately, the strong start was short-lived. What followed was a veritable implosion. Germany's resilience melted like ice in the blazing midday sun. Goalkeeper Ann-Katrin Berger, who had recently been a stabilizing factor, had a dismal day. Several misplaced passes in the build-up led to dangerous turnovers and her nerves were visibly frayed. One almost felt as if all that talk about low-risk build-up play had completely thrown them off track. Such insecurities can have bitter consequences in a knockout match against a top nation like France. The French women on the other hand, appears tactically mature, more solid in their play and above all they look confident. Coach Bonadei took a risk before the tournament by unexpectedly leaving some established stars at home. He also made some bold rotations in the group stage but the success proves him right. |
