Germany 'punished' for winning World Cup group, Nagelsmann criticises schedule

Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann has said the current World Cup schedule penalises teams that win their groups, arguing the compressed turnaround leaves his analytical backroom staff racing against the clock. Germany sealed top spot in Group E with a game to spare after a 2-1 comeback win over the Ivory Coast in Toronto.

They will face a third-placed team from Group A, B, C, D or F in Boston on Monday, June 29, but their opponents will not be confirmed until the final group fixtures conclude on Saturday night. Nagelsmann explained: "I don't think it's ideal that you're somewhat punished for winning the group.

I'm not a big fan of it. Anyone can imagine that there are better setups than scrubbing through footage all Saturday night, only to present the opponent to the team on Sunday." To cope, the technical staff have already begun scouting several potential opponents.

Germany, Toronto, Boston

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