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Changes and permanence, in football and in life, will always bring an eternal doubt: “What if it were different?”
Spain had a forced interruption on the eve of the opening of the 2018 World Cup. Julen Lopetegui was sacked to take over Real Madrid and Fernando Hierro took over in a hurry. After the elimination for the host Russia, Luis Enrique took over to consolidate the renewal that had already begun in 2014, at the end of the most successful cycle in the history of the national team. The Xavi / Iniesta era.
Tortuous process, subject to oscillations. Because it is necessary to maintain some symbols, such as Sergio Ramos and Busquets, to pave the way for the youngest. But in the world of teams, without time to train and consolidate the game model more quickly, the job is even more complex.
Perhaps that is why Germany insisted on Joachim Löw after the failure of 2018, with elimination in the group stage and much criticism for the problems on the field and also in the management of people. But there was credit for the 2014 world title and the courage and upholstery to attract younger athletes, including winning the 2017 Confederations Cup.
But since then there has been the impression of widespread demobilization. Very uneven performance, as well as disappointing results. Including the relegation in the first edition of the League of Nations, reversed with a change in the competition regulations.
Paths that crossed in September in the 1-1 draw in Stuttgart, going to Group 4, with Ukraine and Switzerland. Reaching the last lap to define the position in the semifinals with the direct confrontation in Seville.
And what we saw was a historical massacre that more clearly portrays the moments of the teams. Luis Enrique’s team literally put the Germans behind the wheel. Coming off uncoordinated pressures with ease, accelerating and moving the offensive quintet on the 4-1-4-1 streak.
Even losing to Canales in the 11th minute and Sergio Ramos in the 42nd minute. But he never gave up control of the game. Coming out with a good pass working with Rodri alongside the defenders, flying down the sides with Sergi Roberto and Gayá. Koke leading the inauguration, now retiring to help Rodri, now joining Ferrán Torres, Dani Olmo and Fabián Ruiz, who entered the place of Canales.
Running over a somewhat intense Germany, despite the technical quality of the front midfield with Gundogan, Kroos, Goretzka, Sané, Gnabry and Werner. And strange behavior, to say the least. Terrifying passivity for athletes as winners in their clubs.
A first half of 65% possession, 93% passing effectiveness. 14 submissions to 1, six to zero. Goals from Morata, Rodri and Ferrán Torres, plus the goal from the center forward in a very doubtful impediment, but without VAR.
The great merit of Spain was that it did not stop at halftime. Turned three, closed six. Two more from Férran Torres and one from Oyarzabal. Touch, turn and attack. Chocolate! The historic win, which Germany had not suffered since Hungary’s 8-3 in the first round of the 1954 World Cup, was a reflection of the final numbers: possession rose to 70% and 23 submissions. Basically 6 to 0 was cheap.
Spectacular performance of those who continue life with more confidence and hope in the “league” between the new generation and the more mature. And all this without the injured Thiago Alcântara, playmaker in the last Champions League final. There are reasons for optimism.
As for Germany, it is difficult to suggest a technical change of command, but clearly something is seriously wrong. It is impossible not to think about the “extension” of Low, in charge of the national team since 2006. Perhaps the best moment has passed.
(Statistics: Whoscored.com)
