Three Observations from Germany’s thrilling 4-3 win over Switzerland
Germany went toe to toe with Switzerland in a game that could have implications for the World Cup
Germany's midfielder #17 Florian Wirtz (L) fights for the ball with Switzerland's defender #3 Silvan Widmer during the international friendly football match between Switzerland and Germany at St. Jakob-Park in Basel, Switzerland on March 27, 2026. (Photo by Fabrice COFFRINI / AFP via Getty Images) | AFP via Getty Images Sometimes, you can be too clever Julian Nagelsmann considers himself a tactician, but at some point the tactics outgrow their purpose.
The system Germany used against Switzerland was an overcomplicated, overwrought mess. The front four was perfectly fluid, with Kai Havertz acting as a focal point while Florian Wirtz occupied the center. Serge Gnabry drifted onto the right while Leroy Sané hugged the touchline, creating a heavy overload on the right.
Joshua Kimmich inverted centrally, allowing the other fullback (David Raum) to push up incredibly high. In effect, a standard 4-2-3-1 started looking like a 2-1-3-5 with acres of space behind the midfield. That became a problem whenever Switzerland got the ball, because they quickly had space to run into on the flanks.
Germany fought back with high intensity gegenpressing, but it wasn’t enough. Judging by the three conceded goals, the defensive structure left a lot to be desired. Individual performances can be blamed, of course.
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