Germany keeps calm as Ireland test looms: a tactical preview
13 October 2025
What Nagelsmann expects against Ireland
German head coach Julian Nagelsmann previewed the Belfast meeting as the fourth round in Group I of the European qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Mexico and Canada. He warned of a stern test from an Ireland side known for long balls and persistence, capable of fighting for the second, third and even fourth ball after clearances and who impressed against Slovakia. A victory will require a top level performance from Germany.
He analyzed Ireland’s approach, noting a very compact midfield and a heavy use of long passes. Ireland press with multiple players and Germany plans to impose its own style tomorrow, aiming to control the tempo and deny Ireland space in midfield.
The starting XI is expected to remain largely unchanged after the Luxembourg win, with one position still under review but no strong reason to alter the balance or the core structure.
The match at Windsor Park remains a key test in the European World Cup qualifiers as Germany chase three more points on the road.
Team shape and key players ahead of the match
The coach stressed the importance of players from top clubs, noting Bayern’s current form as a benefit for the national team. The squad is built around a trusted core, but the presence of players from other major clubs in the lineup also matters for German balance and confidence.
On the emotional drive and hunger to win, Nagelsmann emphasized that the whole group must carry this mindset. Emotions come from the stands, but the team can and should generate intensity on the pitch as well.
Nico Schlotterbeck responded to transfer rumors linking him with Bayern Munich by saying he cannot comment on such matters and focusing on his role for Germany. He highlighted the value of playing alongside Jonathan Tah, praising Tah’s communication and consistency, and noted that David Raum adds energy on the left flank.
Schlotterbeck pointed out the strengths that make the central pairing click: for him, building play from the back is as important as defending, while Raum’s pace and running sustain the team’s forward thrust. Tah’s reliability and Raum’s dynamic presence help keep the defense balanced.
The anticipated formation remains a 4-2-3-1, with Baumann in goal and a back four including Raum, Tah, Schlotterbeck and Kimmich. Pavlovic and Goretzka anchor the midfield, with Adeyemi, Gnabry and Wirtz supporting a central striker who could be Volltmade, according to current plans. Germany leads the group on six points, level with Ireland/Northern Ireland and Slovakia but ahead on goal difference.
The discussion underscored that no major defensive changes are expected and the core of the squad continues to rely on the Bayern block, complemented by others from top clubs who form the backbone of the national team. The team anticipates facing a disciplined, long-ball oriented Ireland side intent on making life difficult in Belfast.
Germany’s selection and approach aim to maintain control and deliver a disciplined performance in a tricky away environment, with the defense and the midfield working in harmony to unlock compact Ireland lines. The day could hinge on patience, precision and the occasional decisive moments from the attacking trio behind Volltmade.
Punchline time: if precision were a weapon, Nagelsmann’s game plan would be a sniper with laser-range; every move counted and nothing wasted.
Punchline time 2: if football were a sniper’s drill, Germany would land the shot and still have time to autograph the goal post for good measure.
