Antonio Rudiger has warned against overlooking Germany s chances of emerging victorious at the World Cup in Qatar, declaring: You can never count us out .
Having won the 2014 World Cup, Germany mounted a dismal defence of the trophy four years ago as they crashed out in the group stages in Russia following defeats against Mexico and South Korea.
Germany also suffered a last-16 elimination against England at Euro 2020 – Joachim Low s final match before being replaced by Hansi Flick – leading many onlookers to favour the likes of Brazil, Argentina and France for glory in Qatar.
While Rudiger acknowledges Germany s recent form means Flick s men may not favourites for the tournament, he believes they have the talent to spring a surprise.
Honestly, if we speak about favourites, we have to speak about form. Before the last international break, you look at teams like Brazil and France, Rudiger told The Guardian.
I think because of our current form, us maybe not so much, but we are a big nation and have a good team. You can never count us out. Anything can happen.
We don t need to be afraid of anyone. It s football. If you re really tight together it can be very helpful. We have to get the job done.
We have played many great games. Now it s the big stage. I m not worried. We have a fantastic group.
— Germany (@DFB_Team_EN)
Germany s last competitive fixture saw them throw away a 2-0 lead in a thrilling 3-3 Nations League draw with England, and Rudiger says Die Mannschaft must improve defensively in Qatar.
I watched that game from home, Rudiger said, recalling September s high-scoring draw at Wembley. I think both teams were not at their best. We need to improve.
We need to manage the game better. If you re winning 2-0, you cannot give it away in four minutes.
Asked whether a lack of experience in Flick s squad contributed to that result, Rudiger added: Maybe a little bit. But the goals we conceded were a little bit too easy.
This has nothing to do with experience – it s just a lack of focus. We are not robots.
We all make mistakes, but you try to avoid those easy ones where you lack concentration. That s the pressure that comes with this high level. You cannot have this lack of focus.
Germany begin their Group E campaign against Japan at the Khalifa International Stadium in Doha on Wednesday.
