Martina Voss-Tecklenburg, Germany’s coach, has challenged her squad to be more creative as they attempt to rebound from a stunning setback to South Korea in a crucial Women’s World Cup match on Thursday.
The 2003 and 2007 champions were among the pre-tournament favorites, but a stunning 2-1 loss to Colombia on Sunday threw a kink in the plans after they thrashed Morocco 6-0 to open their account.
A win in Brisbane would guarantee a place in the last 16, while a draw would suffice unless Morocco beat Colombia. If Germany loses and Colombia wins, the game will be decided on goal difference.
Voss-Tecklenburg believed they should have been “smarter” at the end of their draw with Colombia. Instead, they pressed for victory and were defeated by a stoppage-time header.
She added patience would be crucial again against a South Korean team that needs to win to keep their slender chances alive, with the coach unsure of the Asian nation’s shape.
“Their system is flexible, technically they are very well trained and they can play at high speed for 90 minutes or more,” said Voss-Tecklenburg, who has been in charge since 2018 and led Germany to the final of last year’s Euros.
“(South Korea coach) Collin Bell has brought in more intensity and made them more courageous.
“They press a lot and we know it could give us some space. It’s about courage and creating spaces,” she added.
Wolfsburg defender Lena Oberdorf, who played in Germany’s run to the final at the 2022 Euros, said she was confident the team would handle the pressure and not slip up again.
“Since we lost 2-1, we have to win, but pressure is part of it and can make you better,” she said.
“We have a lot of experienced players who have been in this situation before. It’s a fantastic stage and we’re all looking forward to it.
“There are some nerves, but it won’t hinder us.”
