Germany, having emerged as group winners with the nation behind them, faces a crucial test in the Euro 2024 last-16 against a Denmark side that has shown potential but yet to ignite fully. A pressing question for coach Julian Nagelsmann, from Berlin to Braunschweig, is who will spearhead the German attack on Saturday. Kai Havertz, the favored choice for the three Group A matches, or Niclas Fuellkrug, the impactful substitute who provided much-needed goals, could be the key to unlocking the Danish defense. Fuellkrug’s decisive header in stoppage time against Switzerland, snatching a draw and securing top spot in the group, showcased his power and presence. Havertz, despite his talent, hasn’t scored at the Euros yet, and against a resolute Danish defense that held England, Slovakia, and Serbia to draws, Fuellkrug’s physicality might be the deciding factor.
Some pundits believe a Havertz-Fuellkrug partnership could be a potent combination. “I can imagine Havertz playing one position further down (the pitch) … he would be good as a false nine,” German World Cup winner Olaf Thon, a commentator for Sport1, told Reuters.
Nagelsmann also faces a challenge in replacing center-back Jonathan Tah, who received his second yellow card against Switzerland. He was replaced by Nico Schlotterbeck in the 60th minute. As Germany prepares for the knockout stage, Nagelsmann’s tactical choices will be scrutinized, and his decision on the starting striker will be a defining moment in their Euro 2024 journey.
