Germany head coach Julian Nagelsmann has warned his players they must produce their best performance of the tournament when they face Paraguay in the World Cup Round of 32.
The four-time world champions are preparing for their first knockout match at the World Cup in 12 years, with Monday’s clash in Boston carrying huge pressure after an inconsistent group-stage campaign.
Nagelsmann described the encounter as a “do or die” battle and admitted Paraguay’s defensive organization makes them one of the most difficult opponents Germany could face at this stage of the competition.
The German coach believes patience, discipline and complete focus will be required to overcome a Paraguay side that impressed during qualification.
“They are an uncomfortable opponent for us,” the Germany coach said in a news conference on Sunday.
“In qualification they conceded very few goals. They are going to ask a lot of us. It’s a do or die match. The boys will bring their A-game. We have to be patient.
“It’s a team which defends well and they stay compact. They have good players and strong physical players. We need a perfect performance.”
Germany reached the knockout rounds as Group E winners, but their journey was far from straightforward.
Nagelsmann’s team produced a dominant win over Curacao, needed a late turnaround against Ivory Coast and suffered defeat against Ecuador.
Those performances have led to criticism back home, but Nagelsmann believes football reactions can often become extreme depending on results.
“If you win everything is perfect, if you lose everything is s—,” Nagelsmann added.
“We work well together and I think we can show how well we play as a unit. I don’t feel like I need to prove anything to anyone. I just try to support my players.
“All we can do is prepare well. We all want to do it better than we did against Ecuador.”
Despite finishing top of their group, Germany have shown moments of vulnerability, conceding opportunities and struggling for consistency across their three matches.
However, the squad remains confident that they can improve as the tournament progresses.
Germany will now look to turn their mixed group-stage displays into a stronger knockout performance, knowing there is little room for error against a disciplined Paraguay side.
Nagelsmann’s message is clear: talent alone will not be enough. Germany must combine quality, patience and teamwork if they want to continue their World Cup journey.
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