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[Saturday, 26/10/2019, 19:00, Zdzisław-Krzyszkowiak-Stadion, Poland]
CB: Takehiro Tomiyasu
"You've all seen then their starting lineup and whilst some of you might already play in the Bundesliga don't get too cocky. That only means they are hungrier to perform and to achieve glory and attract the attention of top clubs." Coach Baum said to the group of young faces who had been narrowed down to the final 23 who were selected to represent their country.
Looking at the young adults and even younger players who have already made a name for themselves in the Bundesliga, Blaum didn't believe that any country could overpower his squad. "I know you all must have glanced at the scouting report that Assistant Coach Sorg prepared but let's go over the notable threats we have to watch out for.
"First let's look at Takefusa Kubo their 18-year-old number 10." Coach Sorg stated as the LED screen in the locker room flickered to the image of a dark-haired Japanese player wearing his countries number 10. "He likes to utilize his low centre of gravity and pinpoint accuracy to deliver a perfect through ball for a critical goal. So, we will have to tighten up our zonal marking around him and try to break up any plays before he can get going."
"Next is Ayase Ueda whose versatile sense of the game perfectly matches Kubo as he is able to score with every part of his body. Our assignment for him is a tight man-to-man marking whenever they are on the attack use your physicality to your advantage and be smart." Coach Sorg stated as he started laying out some of the player's tendencies and his ability to rise above defenders for a towering header in set-piece situations.
"Finally, what we want you to pay attention to are their wings that will bring their attacks to life. Hiroki Abe on the left flank and Ritsu Doan on the right." Following his words the images of the two players appeared on the monitor" Ritsu Doan had the characteristic black hair that Japanese people have cut short in a slightly growing buzz cut. With his serious gaze in the picture, he resembled the samurais or ninjas that some of the players had seen in Japanese media.
Hiroki Abe on the other hand had an almost relaxed demeanor in comparison as he smiled brightly in his picture. The players subconsciously paid more attention to him as he had signed for the Barcelona organization this year. Despite it only being the B team it was only a step up to the main team from there. A large step no doubt but it was still easier than any other Barca hopeful around the world.
"First Ritsu Doan, he is by the very definition a big-game player, expect him to suddenly cut inwards and unleash a left-footed rocket into the top corner when he spots an opportunity." Following his words a short clip played of Ritsu doing similar things in the J league catching not only defenders but also goalkeepers off guard.
"Next let's look at Hiroki one of the few young players who can be called a traditional winger. He is the type to deliver a cross into the box rather than go for a long shot, but his change of speed and his explosive acceleration has allowed him to be dominant." following his words another short clip of Hiroki using his speed to skip past his marker before delivering a pinpoint cross for a match-winning goal.
Seeing the players seriously paying attention to Coach Sorg's pre-match statistical breakdown, Coach Baum clapped his hands, gaining their attention. "Their attacking quartet will be dangerous on the counter but if we play our game, maintain possession and utilize our chances, we will walk away with 3 points. Now this is our starting lineup."
CB: Armel Bella-Kotchap
"Our two double pivots will be the most important in containing their counters. Niklas, I want you sticking to Takefusa Kubo like a bodyguard even if he goes to sleep you will be right there for when he wakes up." Coach Baum stated with enthusiasm as he made sure that Niklas understood his assignment.
"What if he goes for a dump coach?" Youssoufa suddenly shouted from the sidelines gaining a few amused chuckles from the rest of the boys. "Then you'll be there to hand him the toilet roll, he does not get to breathe without you giving him permission."
The room burst into another bout of laughter as Niklas's face quickly turned red. "Angelo I want you intercepting passes and use your vision to ping passes and give Rakim something to work with when the game becomes stagnant," Coach Baum continued in a serious tone the moment the players quieted down giving the deep-lying playmaker more instructions.
"Rakim, I know it's an unfamiliar role but it's what we need from you today. Play smart and use that vision of yours to unlock attacking opportunities. Avoid dribbling too much for the first 15 minutes kids get over eager to prove themselves and you got a big target on your back." He started making eye contact with the young phenom that had fallen into his lap.
He had been satisfied with his work ethic and ability to adapt to their instructions. With how versatile he is added to his natural creativity makes him the perfect number ten for his squad. It's only too bad that the player was dam good on the wing which made it hard to blame coaches who utilised him there.
Despite his proven track record on the wing, he decided to follow his instincts and utilize him in the Attacking midfield role. What a squad like Germany didn't lack was talent in many roles around the pitch, what they need is a player that can make the most of the team. Your Toni Kross and Mesut Özil are perfect examples of field generals and architects of the German national team.
"Understood coach," Rakim simply answered as he pulled out a fresh pair of Ace 11 national team edition. The people at Apex had specially made them following his request for this mini World Cup campaign.
The shoe didn't change much but the colourway was in the German colors with Rakim's 22 on the outside of the boot. Stretching out the pair he quickly slipped his feet in them but didn't tie the laces right away as he stretched his toes to get a feel for them. Coach Baum didn't mind his actions as he continued giving players instructions on what to watch out for.
"Finally, Lenn you will play as a target man if they park the bus use your physicality to hold up play and dominate your matchups." He said with a smile making eye contact with Lenn who silently nodded in response. "Alright you all know what to do, the mission hasn't changed, and the ball is still round so go have some fun out there."
"YES COACH!" the players exclaimed as they jumped up from their seats and headed for the exit.