Julian Nagelsmann Questions Yamal’s Quarter-final Pressure

Julian Nagelsmann, Germany’s coach, has praised Spain’s Lamine Yamal as a talented and enjoyable player but has questioned whether the 16-year-old winger can handle the pressures of a high-stakes Euro 2024 quarter-final. Yamal’s performances in the tournament have been impressive with two assists to his name. This accomplishment makes him one of only three teenagers since 1980 to achieve this feat. However, Julian Nagelsmann wants to see how Yamal reacts when things get tough.

Nagelsmann prioritizes containing Jamal Musiala and trusts Germany’s attacking prowess to influence the game. Germany captain Ilkay Gundogan praised Yamal’s outstanding season with Barcelona, recognizing his contributions to the team. However, Gundogan remains confident that Germany’s passionate home support will play a crucial role in disrupting Spain’s momentum and securing a victory. Spain coach Luis de la Fuente has vowed that his team will take an aggressive approach against Germany, emphasizing their unbeaten run in the tournament so far.

He stressed the importance of seizing the initiative from the start and minimizing Germany’s strengths while exploiting their weaknesses. De la Fuente anticipates a match with the intensity and quality akin to a European Championship final. The anticipation is that both teams will bring their best and deliver a thrilling encounter for the fans to enjoy. Both coaches acknowledged the significance of key players like Toni Kroos for Germany and Fabian Ruiz for Spain.

De la Fuente jokingly discussed plans to neutralize Kroos, highlighting the strategic challenges both teams are tackling. It is clear that the coaches are aware of the impact key players like Kroos can have on the outcome of the match. In terms of team news, Germany welcomes back centre-back Jonathan Tah from suspension, likely partnering him with Antonio Rudiger in defense. Spain has no new injuries and is expected to field the same lineup that beat Georgia convincingly. The team is looking to maintain their winning momentum and replicate their success against Germany.

The highly anticipated quarter-final between Spain and Germany promises a spectacle of tactical prowess and footballing excellence. The highly anticipated quarter-final match between Spain and Germany is scheduled to kick off at 17:00 BST. Catch the game live on ITV1 with full match commentary on BBC Radio 5 live and BBC Sounds.