Sport: Soccer Country: Germany Category: Scores & Results

Julian Nagelsmann feels Germany punished by World Cup format

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 25, 2026, 1:09 AM

Last updated Jun 25, 2026

Julian Nagelsmann feels Germany punished by World Cup format

Summary

Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann expressed concerns over his team's disadvantage as group winners in the World Cup. After securing top position in Group E, Germany faces reduced preparation time for their last-32 tie, learning their opponent less than 48 hours before the match. The new 48-team format complicates the lead-up, as Germany awaits results from other matches to determine their next opponent. Ecuador, needing a win to avoid early elimination, has one point from two matches. Coach Sebastian Beccacece emphasizes the challenge while still believing in a chance for success.

Source Links

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By the Numbers

•Germany tops Group E and awaits last-32 opponent selection.
•Nagelsmann criticizes the World Cup format for limiting preparation time.
•Ecuador has one point from two matches and needs a win against Germany.
•Germany previously defeated Curacao 7-1 and overcame Ivory Coast 2-1.

Latest Updates

1:09 AMYahoo Sports — Nagelsmann feels Germany 'punished' for topping World Cup group

What they're saying

"
Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann said on Wednesday he believes his side are at a disadvantage as World Cup group winners due to reduced preparation time for their last-32 tie.Germany, as with seven other group winners, must wait until the end of the opening round late on Saturday to discover which of the eight best third-place sides will await them next Monday in Foxborough.
— Yahoo Sports

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