Löw: "This team plays at the highest level", 15.11.2017

It was a fiery encounter to finish off the year. Lars Stindl rescued Germany’s unbeaten record in 2017 with an equaliser in the last minute to make it 2-2 against France. In an interview with DFB.de, head coach Joachim Löw gave his verdict on the team’s year, talked about Mario Götze’s comeback and what Germany need to work on before Russia 2018.

DFB.de: Mister Löw, are you pleased with the end to the year?

Joachim Löw: We can be very pleased with the winter international break. It was a gripping match, and that’s exactly what you’re hoping for as a head coach. Along with the first game against England, these are the types of tests we wanted – both taught us a lot. It was great character to come from behind twice. We didn’t give up.

DFB.de: How important was it to not end on a defeat?

Löw: The result wasn’t the most important thing. Of course, it gives us a good feeling to get the draw, but overall we can be very pleased with how the year has gone. I’m completely relaxed now – there won’t be any sleepless nights for me!

DFB.de: What do you need to work on?

Löw: There’s always work to do. Even after a great year, we need to make improvements. We could’ve used space on the field better and we could’ve been more organised and compact defensively. These are things we’ll fine-tune during our training camp. The team give me plenty to think about, but I’m not worried!

DFB.de: What message did you leave the players with?

Löw: I told them what we’re expecting in the World Cup. The players have to continue the season in the same vein if we want to be successful in Russia, but they all know what they have to do and what’s expected of them.

DFB.de: Why are you optimistic going into this World Cup year?

Löw: We’ve established a very strong base from which to develop from. We know what we can do, and so I’m not worried about the build-up. The team play football at the highest level, but of course you also need to be strong mentally to do well at a World Cup. Every team will be looking to trip us up. Some serious challenges await us and we have to be ready for that.

DFB.de: Mario Götze made his comeback for the national team after a year out. What level is he playing at now?

Löw: He’s on the right track. Mario’s moving well and looking good physically. He needs a few more games to get back to his highest level but he’s got a tough year behind him. His pass leading to Stindl’s goal was a lovely moment.

DFB.de: How are you feeling ahead of the World Cup group stages draw in Moscow on December 1st?

Löw: You always go into these draws with a certain amount of nervousness. Afterwards, you can start preparing for your opponents and we’ll also decide which of the two training camp locations we choose.

15 November 2017
Originally on dfb.de. Uploaded here to prevent loss once moved on or removed from that site.