Germany looks strong in UEFA EURO 2024, starting with a 5-1 win over Scotland and a 2-0 victory against Hungary. However, their set-piece defense has shown vulnerabilities.
Defensive Strategy
Germany’s strategy involves a high defensive line for free kicks, which drops back just as the ball is kicked, aiming to catch opponents offside.
Risks and Rewards
Rewards:
High line prevents attackers from accessing valuable areas.
Forces delayed runs, reducing opponent effectiveness.
Risks:
Creates exploitable space behind the line.
Vulnerable to outswinging deliveries.
Key Observations
Timing: Late movement creates spaces that fast attackers can exploit. German defenders starting their runs simultaneously with attackers can be outpaced.
Gündoğan’s Role: Key in tracking near-post attackers and reacting to second-phase opportunities.
Width and Position: Defensive line covers space zonally, starting outside the far post. Compact unit forces attackers to find spaces around the block but leaves central areas exposed.
Opponent Strategies
Space Exploitation: Scotland targeted central space by dragging defenders and creating dangerous opportunities.
Overloading the Defense: The Dutch used overloads, creating numerical advantages and using screens to open paths into high-value areas.
Deep Runs: Attackers from deeper positions gain momentum, often outpacing static German defenders.
Vulnerabilities
Individual Errors: Zonal system relies on precise execution. Any lapse, such as a mistimed move, can be exploited.
Physical Duels: Involving attacking and midfield players in defense can lead to weaker duels, as seen with Musiala being overpowered.
Manipulating the Line: Opponents can disrupt the high line by physically forcing German players back, nullifying the offside trap.
Conclusion
Germany’s set-piece defense, while innovative, carries inherent risks. The high line and late retreat strategy, coupled with zonal marking, can be exploited by quick, well-coordinated attacks. As the tournament progresses, other teams might increasingly target these vulnerabilities, testing the resilience of Germany’s defensive setup under Nagelsmann.
Germany remains one of the favorites to win UEFA EURO 2024, but their defensive approach to free kicks could be a potential Achilles’ heel.
