While Albion is trying to break a decades-long curse, the Germans are searching for a way back to the top after a series of failures. What is the story of these football giants at the world’s biggest tournament at a time when both national teams are changing their identity?
Anglie
England has not won a major trophy since the famous Wembley final in 1966. "It represents pride... That team gave us something we can shout about forever," says legendary striker Michael Owen in an exclusive production ahead of the World Cup. "It turned the team members into celebrities known throughout the country to this day. I hope something similar happens again," he adds.
However, the memory of that legendary success has become more of a heavy burden for later generations. After years of disappointment under Gareth Southgate, a new chapter is beginning with elite German strategist Thomas Tuchel. His clearly structured system is meant to bring what England has been missing for so long – not just the ability to control the game, but above all, to finish key matches with a win. A crucial role in his plans is played by Declan Rice, who is considered the key glue holding the team’s balance together.
England’s biggest opponent, however, is often not the team on the other side of the pitch, but the immense pressure of expectations and the fear of failure – especially in penalty shootouts. "Taking a penalty at eighteen is pretty scary and not pleasant at all," Owen smiles, explaining how he sees the team’s strength ahead of the tournament.
Německo
A similarly tough, though different, challenge awaits Germany. The team that was once seen as an infallible tournament machine and dominated the 2014 World Cup in Brazil ran into harsh reality in 2018 and 2022, when they sensationally failed to advance from the group stage. "International football passed us by and we didn’t react at all," says former German defender Robert Huth.
The change and awakening of Die Mannschaft is expected to come from Julian Nagelsmann, who has brought much-needed energy back into the rigid system. "You had to bring a new spark to the team, and in my opinion, that spark is Nagelsmann," agrees Flashscore News’ Germany expert Anton Latuska. With huge talents like Florian Wirtz and Jamal Musiala, the German team is starting to play modern, proactive, and once again deadly football.
Can Tuchel bring the trophy home after 60 years? Will Nagelsmann and the new generation of talents restore Germany’s reputation as a football powerhouse? Both countries are aiming for a place in history, but only one can become world champion.
Watch the full second episode on our YouTube channel, where you’ll find deeper tactical analysis and powerful stories from both teams that will shape the future of world football! Coming soon: an episode dedicated to the stories of Brazil and Argentina.