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Jersey Swap: Robin Olsen
Perhaps waiting a bit to ask Olsen to swap kits would be ideal due to a heartbreaking Toni Kroos’ stoppage time goal with less than a minute to play. Kroos whipped in a right-footed laser that was set up by Germany’s first scorer, Marco Reus. Regardless, Die Mannschaft had three chances prior, requiring Olsen to get a hand, leg, or anything to deflect a shot from Mario Gomez, Jonas Hector and İlkay Gündoğan— twice! Don’t count out the Swedes just yet, Olsen and company will need to play just as good ,if not better, result to earn a good result against Mexico next week.
Tip o’ the Cap: Joshua Kimmich
From kickoff to the final whistle, the 23-year-old fullback caused havoc for the Swedish backline, especially following Swedish striker Ola Toivonen’s in the 32nd minute. It seemed like Kimmich occupied the right back, right midfield and winger position all at the same time. He and Reus were responsible for the multitude of chances Germany had in the second half. Specifically, his most notable cross led to a Timo Werner half volley that would have gone in if the ball had dipped a yard or two in the 81st minute. With a sense of urgency, the Bayern right back played with technical skill, mental aggression and emotional desire.
Golf Clap: Jérôme Boateng
Yes, Boateng and Antonio Rüdiger may not be one’s first choice to win a 100-meter dash. That was made obvious after Marcus Berg got in behind the two center backs twice within the first ten minutes of the match.
At any rate, that takes a back seat to the silly challenge from Boateng that led to a a red card, which occurred just ten minutes after receiving a debatable yellow because of a foul on Emil Forsberg.
Germany must hope Mats Hummels will be available for their match against South Korea in the final match of Group F.
RED CARD TO BOATENG!
— FOX Sports (@FOXSports) June 23, 2018
He gone. pic.twitter.com/UG45K7exiS
Standing Ovation: Marco Reus
By the knee, Reus equalized for Germany in the 48th minute thanks to a Timo Werner cross (Werner is an honorable mention as well). Reus has the chance to make a solidfied comeback after a devastating injury in the 2017 German Cup, sidelining him for most of Borussia Dortmund’s season. His two-touch football on the right flank with Joshua Kimmich created many chances— surely Germany would find the net.
Meister of the Match: Toni Kroos
As the doubt began to loom, Mr. Kroos put pace, power and beauty in a free kick just yards outside the penalty box, thanks to his wondrous right foot. With less than 60 seconds left in stoppage time, the whipping strike flew by Olsen so fast, he couldn't, raise his left hand in time.
TONI KROOS CALLED GAME.
— FOX Sports (@FOXSports) June 23, 2018
What a set piece! What a goal! pic.twitter.com/KA0QkOSWZN