Germany faced off against Chile in the Confederations Cup in Russia, with the match ending 1-1. The reigning champions of South America opened the scoring after a scrambled, last-ditch effort by Alexis Sánchez which hit the post before going into the net. Just before half-time, world champions Germany equalised after a fluid passing move ended with a tap-in by striker Lars Stindl. These are three of the main talking points following the group stage match.
Germany vs Chile: Match Reaction
Alexis the Great
Alexis Sánchez became the all-time leading goal scorer for the Chilean National team after his toe-poked goal in the seventh minute. The 28-year-old terrorised the German defence all night long, eluding defenders with his close control and low centre of gravity.
The diminutive winger continues to show why he is a hot commodity in the European transfer market. Coming off of a stellar season with Arsenal, tallying 24 goals and 11 assists in the Premier League and winning the FA Cup, he produced one of the most productive seasons of his career. If he continues this scintillating form don’t be surprised if “La Roja” win the competition.
Experience Wins the Day
Chile entered the tournament as the oldest team ever assembled at any Confederations Cup, with an average age of 29 years and one month. Germany, meanwhile, had the youngest side at the tournament with an average age of 24 years and four months.
Although the Germans dominated possession and created a multitude of scoring opportunities, the South Americans’ maturity ultimately made the difference. They relied on strong counter attacks and withheld many German flurries with their experience in the back. Yes, Germany didn’t field their first team as many of them are resting from busy seasons, but Chile proved their worth as an emerging powerhouse with their golden generation.
Youth in Abundance
The German machine keeps steaming along its path to dynastic quality, picking up world-class youngsters along the way. Germany manager Joachim Löw made the decision to rest established veterans like Toni Kroos, Thomas Müller, and Jerome Boateng, and give the younger, inexperienced players an opportunity to impress at a major international tournament. Although they have the youngest team in the competition, Löw, his staff, the players, and the fans still have one goal in sight: to win.
Leon Goretzka and Julian Brandt are a few of the standout youngsters who enjoyed fine seasons in the Bundesliga. Goretzka amassed five goals and three assists in 30 games for Schalke last season, whilst Brandt scored three goals and picked up eight assists in 32 games for Bayern Leverkusen. If they continue to perform, they could find themselves on the plane to Russia next summer.
The German fanbase should be very excited as a new crop of dynamic talent is emerging before the world’s watchful eye. Die Mannschaft are continuing to grow, and by the time of next year’s World Cup they could be at their strongest yet.
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