Germany U21 0-1 Spain U21: Tactical Player Report

The creativity of the Spaniards in midfield was always going to be a threat for the Germans. The Germans lacked this creativity but were more than adept at containing the Spaniards with the solidity of Sebastian Rode and Sebastian Rudy in the centre.

Rode was an absolute work-horse in the German side, showing immense energy and determination to shut out the Spanish youngsters. His constant pressure on the Spaniards made it difficult for the defending champions to have a more telling contribution from midfield. He played the role of a proper enforcer, pressurizing the opposition. He worked well to constantly dispose the Spanish players off the ball.

The Frankfurt midfielder successfully attempted 5 tackles in the game, more than any other player on the pitch (Holtby had the same amount). His aggression got the better of him when he received a yellow card for a strong, and unnecessary, tackles just before the 70th minute mark. Rainer Adrion realised that Rode’s aggression could land him in trouble with possible a second yellow. He was withdrawn soon later, and the effect on the team was evident.

Besides his defensive contribution, Rode’s most telling participation came in an attacking phase. The 22-year-old youngster regularly picked up the ball, and with a burst of pace ran at the Spanish defence. There was no stopping the energetic midfielder until he reached the Spanish box and was crowded out. Nevertheless, his threatening bursts from midfield put pressure on the Spanish U21 side, as he looked to add a bit extra to his sides attack.