Nagelsmann: There was too much improvisation on the pitch against Ecuador

The head coach of the German national team, Julian Nagelsmann, commented in the World Cup 2026 match against Ecuador (1:2). "We started the match very well. Unfortunately, immediately after the goal, we started doing real harakiri, if we talk about our position on the field. After that, the game became much more difficult for us. It was a match of life for Ecuador, and it was noticeable - they did not take their foot off the gas pedal. Didn't the fact that you already guaranteed yourself first place in the group take away that last percent of dedication from the team? No, please stop saying such nonsense, honestly. Do you think the boys didn't want to give their all? No, it's not that we wanted less. They just took more risks in many episodes. Of course, we made substitutions differently than in a situation where we really need another goal. But I cannot say about any of my football players that he did not give his best. This is too superficial a statement. Instead, we needed to make better use of our chances when transitioning from defense to attack. We have to learn that after a good start to the match and a quick goal, we need to act more calmly, and not start changing positions too often. There was too much improvisation on the field. We need to be more patient and keep a clearer structure and position on the field. And if you also lose the ball too often, then at some point it becomes very difficult," the FIFA press service quoted Nagelsmann as saying. Available for viewing on media.