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[SPORTS] · Germany, Ecuador, United States · 74 sources

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Germany's 2026 World Cup campaign grapples with injuries, lineup tweaks and a new fan anthem

Germany have already secured the top spot in Group E of the 2026 FIFA World Cup and face Ecuador in their final group match in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Coach Julian Nagelsmann can rotate his squad without pressure, having already booked a place in the round of‑16.

Defender Nico Schlotterbeck suffered an inner‑ankle ligament tear in the win over the Ivory Coast and is ruled out for the rest of the tournament, a loss highlighted in several medical reviews of ankle sprains. Borussia Dortmund’s Julian Ryerson also withdrew early from a club match, adding to German defensive concerns.

Tactical analysts warn that Germany’s right‑side defence, particularly Joshua Kimmich and Leroy Sané, may be a weakness against faster opponents. The team is also weighing the role of striker Deniz Undav, who started against Ecuador after a strong showing but is expected to return to a super‑joker role from the bench later in the knockout stage.

Former international Jürgen Klinsmann praised the squad’s spirit, calling the tournament “everything is possible”. Defensive leadership now falls to Antonio Rüdiger, who described teammate Jonathan Tah as the new “chef” of the back line.

Off the pitch, a party‑song titled “Der Zug hat keine Bremse” by Lorenz Büffel has become a fan anthem, played after victories. Canadian World Cup organisers also credited German fans for boosting the tournament’s atmosphere.

Sources

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VS Ramsau - Zillertaler Heimatstimme [www.zillertalerheimatstimme.at]
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