Germany hurting but Low sure they will ‘show right reaction’ against Sweden
Germany boss Joachim Low is confident his side will bounce back against Group F rivals Sweden in Sochi tonight.
Low’s reigning champions suffered a shock 1-0 loss to Mexico in their opening game on Sunday and Low expects a big response from his players against Sweden, who saw off South Korea 1-0.
“This week the players have shown a reaction in training, but tomorrow is what counts,” said Low. “I’m convinced they will show the right reaction. We have to deliver and if we win we’re back in the race.” Low admitted the Mexico loss had been hard to swallow. He added: “This week the first few days were not easy because we had to digest that loss against Mexico. It hurt. But the mistakes we made in that match, and there were quite a few, we’ve really analysed them and can put that right.”
Sweden’s preparations have been hit by illness and injury, but coach Janne Andersson is determined not to let a golden opportunity pass by after his side’s opening win.
Filip Helander, fellow defender Pontus Jansson and midfielder Marcus Rohden have been kept apart from the squad after struggling with stomach upsets, but are expected to team up with them today. Striker Isaac Kiese Thelin (ankle) is an injury doubt.
“These are the moments you live for, that you have worked your entire career for,” said Andersson. “It’s a fantastic opportunity to advance from the group already in the second match.”