Seven goals, 14 substitutions and no cards provided plenty of narrative in Germany’s 4-3 friendly win over Switzerland in Basel as preparations for the 2026 World Cup enter their final phase. With roughly two and a half months to go before the tournament in Canada, Mexico and the United States, selection questions remain. But Florian Wirtz stamped his claim: he scored twice and set up two more.
Wirtz’s cross produced Jonathan Tah’s first Germany goal, and he picked out Serge Gnabry with the pass that led to Germany’s initial lead. Gnabry’s curled strike before half-time and Wirtz’s well-placed finish from the edge of the box proved decisive. Without Wirtz’s contributions, Germany would have had little to show.
“Flo’s goals were exceptional,” Julian Nagelsmann said after the match. “We know he is super creative.” Leon Goretzka added: “You saw his class today. You can see it from his first touch for his second goal, and to place the ball in the top corner like he did was superb.”
At 22, Wirtz has been central alongside Jamal Musiala since Euro 2024, with the pair nicknamed “Wusiala.” He has also produced key moments in recent qualifiers — breaking a stalemate against Northern Ireland and helping against Slovakia. His Liverpool move had a difficult start, but he has regained form and, wearing Germany’s dark blue away kit, provided a leader-by-example performance. When asked if this was his best Germany game, Wirtz conceded it “probably was,” and emphasized the need for more cohesion despite the win.
Defensive issues, however, remain a worry. Switzerland were ruthlessly efficient — three goals from three shots on target — and Germany’s build-up left openings. Nico Schlotterbeck’s errors led to Swiss goals, prompting questions over the defensive pecking order that has seen the young Dortmund center-back edge past veteran Antonio Rüdiger. For a team whose defense has been criticized for lacking world-class depth, such mistakes are a reminder of the challenges that await against top opposition.
Offensively, there were positive signs beyond Wirtz. Kai Havertz, back for the first time since November 2024, showed glimpses of regaining fitness and form. Gnabry reaffirmed his squad status with a fine goal, and Bayern youngster Lennart Karl made his international debut off the bench. Quick corners and some slick passing moves offered encouraging attacking variation.
Ultimately, Wirtz wrested the narrative back when Germany needed inspiration, lifting those around him and helping his side recover whenever they were pegged back. The performance bolstered hopes about Germany’s attacking potential even as defensive frailties persist.
Edited by: Matt Ford