Germany bounced back from a year of upheaval with a commanding 2-0 triumph over France on Saturday evening.
The lead-up to the impending European Championships on home turf had been turbulent for Germany, marked by a string of poor performances and a managerial change, with Julian Nagelsmann taking the reins from former Bayern Munich boss Hansi Flick last autumn.
However, they seized victory at Lyon’s Groupama Stadium, overcoming a France side widely regarded as Euro 2024 favorites.
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Germany wasted no time asserting their dominance, netting the opening goal a mere seven seconds into the match. Toni Kroos, returning from international retirement, orchestrated the move, finding Florian Wirtz with a precise through ball. Wirtz then stunned goalkeeper Brice Samba with a brilliant 25-yard strike.
Shortly after the break, Kai Havertz, instrumental in setting up the opener, extended Germany’s lead. Capitalizing on Jamal Musiala’s skillful control of Wirtz’s long pass, Havertz calmly tapped in from close range.
Despite Kylian Mbappe’s full 90-minute presence, France struggled to make an impact, succumbing to a disheartening defeat in front of their fervent supporters. Les Bleus will seek redemption against Chile on Tuesday and then face Austria, the Netherlands, and either Wales or Poland in the Euro 2024 group stage.
Meanwhile, Germany will kick off their campaign against Scotland, followed by matches against Hungary and Switzerland. The German Football Association (DFB) aims to secure Nagelsmann’s commitment with a new contract before the tournament begins, amid interest from clubs like Liverpool and Borussia Dortmund.