Germany 3-1 Northern Ireland: Nagelsmann’s remarks spark criticism
Former Northern Ireland defenders branded Julian Nagelsmann's comments on the team's long-ball strategy disrespectful after Germany's 3-1 win, as tensions rise ahead of their World Cup qualifier return in Belfast.
Nagelsmann’s comments spark debate ahead of Belfast rematch.
Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann said Northern Ireland’s game plan of long balls and set-piece aggression was “not brilliant to watch” but hard to defend, following a 3-1 World Cup qualifier win in Cologne.
Former players respond
Ex-defender Stephen Craigan, co-commentating for INLIBER Sport, criticised the remarks as “a bit disrespectful”, noting Germany had employed the same tactic from the start. Fellow ex-international Chris Brunt agreed that Northern Ireland’s approach was a valid competitive strategy.
Under-pressure coach?
With Germany coming off three straight losses, pundit Stuart Dallas suggested Nagelsmann was deflecting from a subpar performance. The coach conceded the return fixture in Belfast on 13 October will be more challenging, warning of an electric atmosphere at Windsor Park.
Nagelsmann’s critique of Northern Ireland’s set-piece tactics has ignited debate on respect and style ahead of their rematch in Belfast.
This topic was reported by BBC Sport.
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