Things are getting serious for Jürgen Klopp in Berlin. In four matchdays as national team coach, he has earned only five points: one win, two draws, and a home loss to Greece. The offense is a particular cause for concern. Scoring just three goals in four matches is far too few for a team with Germany’s ambitions. The defense, on the other hand, has conceded only two goals. Klopp is significantly trimming his roster. He had initially called up 44 players for his debut, but that number has now been reduced to 23. Before the match in Berlin, the team also faces a game behind closed doors in Belgrade on Friday.
The Netherlands lead the group with eight points and remain undefeated. Xavi Hernández has quickly adapted the Oranje to his possession-based style of play. The first leg ended 1-1 and was a hard-fought match. For Germany, however, Monday’s result isn’t the only thing that matters. The top two teams from each group advance to the quarterfinals in March. Greece is playing Serbia at the same time and remains in contention for second place. It’s also important to keep an eye on the teams below. Serbia can still reach six points with two wins.
Prediction: Germany is under pressure in Berlin but has its own fans cheering it on. The Dutch are also looking for a win to secure their spot in the quarterfinals. This points to a close game in which neither team will want to make any mistakes. We’re betting on a narrow home win for the German national team.