Match awards from Germany’s last gasp 2-1 victory over Romania

It wasn’t pretty for Germany against Romania in their FIFA World Cup qualifier but Hansi Flick’s side managed to get over the line thanks to his assistant on the pitch, Thomas Müller.

Jersey Swap: Ianis Hagi

It is hard to not give this to Hagi because his goal was simply so well taken. He managed to turn Antonio Rüdiger inside out, beat out Leon Goretzka and got the better of Marc André Ter Stegen as he scored to set Romania up for a surprise victory. Germany had problems down Kehrer’s side all night and Rüdiger was called on to defend more than he expected. It is no surprise Hagi was the player Kehrer had to deal with as a result.

Der Bomber: Serge Gnabry

Leroy Sané had an off day; Timo Werner seems to always have an off day; Marco Reus wasn’t exactly clicking. It would be down to Serge Gnabry to find a way past Romania’s stubborn back line and he did so with a well taken goal. Even before his goal, it seemed for long periods that if Germany would find a way back into the game, it would be through their #10.

Der Fußballgott: Joshua Kimmich

If not for precision, I am giving this one to Kimmich for endeavor. Captain on the night, he tried plenty of different plays to help Germany back into the game. He tried lobs and crosses into the box, quick passing into the box, direct passes into the box but not much seemed to come off. That being said, he was tenacious as ever and he never stopped trying.

Der Kaiser: Antonio Rüdiger

I debated about giving this to Jonas Hofmann because he added plenty to the attack. However, his lack of speed saw him get caught out a few times. There was not much threat to Niklas Süle but Rüdiger, with Kehrer on his side, had to defend a lot and did so well for the most part aside from the goal of course.

Meister of the Match: Thomas Müller

Yes, he came on late. Yes, all he did was find space, which we know he does. Yes, he didn’t do much more than that. The point is when Müller is on the pitch, half-spaces open up, opposition defenses get confused and Bayern or Germany finds a way as a result. Today was no different; with the clock winding down, after Goretzka flicked a ball toward him, Müller got on the end of it to send it into goal and hand Germany the win.

And there you have it! Let us know your thoughts and thank you for reading!