FEATURE | What we learned from Germany’s World Cup elimination

FEATURE | What we learned from Germany’s World Cup elimination Germany’s 2026 FIFA World Cup came to a disappointing end after a penalty shootout defeat against Paraguay.  Julian Nagelsmann’s side dominated possession for long periods and thought they had found a dramatic winner in extra time through Jonathan Tah, only for the goal to be correctly ruled out after Waldemar Anton was judged to have fouled Paraguay goalkeeper Roberto Fernández in the build-up.  Ultimately, Germany paid the price for another underwhelming attacking display and an uncertain penalty shootout, bringing an early end to a tournament that promised much more. Nagelsmann failed to learn from the warning signs Germany’s elimination did not begin in the penalty shootout. It began long before that with Nagelsmann’s refusal to address issues that had been evident throughout the tournament. The warning signs were already visible against Ivory Coast and Ecuador. Their attacking play lacked efficiency against stronger opponents, while the substitutes repeatedly offered greater energy and impact than the starting front line. Despite those recurring patterns, Nagelsmann made only minimal adjustments for the round of 16. Most notably, Leroy Sané retained his place despite struggling throughout the tournament. While other attacking players either influenced games through goals, assists or improved overall performances, Sané continued to deliver below expectations. Yet he remained one of the first names in the starting lineup. Tournament football often rewards coaches who identify problems early and adapt. Joachim Löw did exactly that in 2014 when he restored Philipp Lahm to right-back, a decision that transformed Germany’s balance on their way to winning the World Cup. Nagelsmann never found that willingness to make decisive changes, and Nagelsmann’s side ultimately paid the price. His selection decisions became the first major reason behind Germany’s elimination. Germany lacked the leadership and mentality that once defined them There is no shortage of talent in this squad. Technically, many of these players rank among the best in Europe. What appeared to be missing against Paraguay, however, was leadership when the pressure reached its highest point. Reports after the match suggested that several players were reluctant to step forward during the penalty shootout. Whether or not that reflects the entire picture, Germany’s body language throughout the decisive moments contrasted sharply with Paraguay’s confidence and determination. For decades, the German national team built their reputation on resilience, personality and an unwavering belief that they would find a way to win difficult matches. Paraguay embodied many of those characteristics on this occasion. They defended collectively, embraced the occasion and never looked intimidated by the magnitude of the match. Previous Germany teams may not always have been the most technically gifted, but they consistently demonstrated the mentality required to succeed in knockout football. That characteristic has become increasingly difficult to recognise in the current generation, with Joshua Kimmich one of the few players who consistently displays that level of responsibility. Germany have lost sight of their footballing identity Germany’s problems extend beyond one coach or one tournament. Since lifting the FIFA Confederations Cup in 2017, there has been a growing sense that the national team has drifted away from the qualities that once made it one of the world’s most successful football nations. The attempt to incorporate more possession-based football and positional concepts has brought tactical evolution, but it has also coincided with the gradual disappearance of many traditional strengths. Aggressive pressing, physical dominance, direct attacking play, leadership and relentless competitiveness have become less visible with each passing tournament. Modernising was never the problem. International football constantly evolves, and Germany had every reason to adapt. The problem has been allowing that evolution to come at the expense of the identity that defined previous World Cup-winning generations. Three consecutive disappointing World Cups suggest this is no longer simply a question of tactical adjustments. Germany need a broader reset that extends beyond the starting eleven. From player development to leadership on the pitch and decision-making off it, the DFB faces fundamental questions about what the national team should represent in the future. Until those questions are answered, they risk continuing to fall short when it matters most. GGFN | Felipe