Florian Wirtz singled out as German media slam players after shock World Cup defeat

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Germany were beaten 2-1 by Ecuador in their final World Cup 2026 group game, with the German media not holding back in their criticism of the playersLiverpool star Florian Wirtz was one of the players singled out for criticism after Germany lost to Ecuador in their final World Cup group match. Julian Nagelsmann's side were already assured of their spot in the round of 32 as group winners, yet concerns remain.The 2-1 defeat laid bare vulnerabilities within their squad, something the German press were quick to highlight.

Against an Ecuador side who needed a win to progress, Leroy Sane gave Nagelsmann's side an early lead, only for Nilson Angulo and Gonzalo Plata to send the South Americans through.There were contentious moments throughout, with Ecuador arguing that Sane's goal should have stood and Germany challenging the VAR decision that denied them a second-half penalty at 1-1. However, Julian Nagelsmann's (38) team delivered a shaky, at times unfocused performance – at this rate, we'll be out soon!"Indeed, the publication even made the case that Germany's solitary goal ought never to have been awarded.

All the latest news and analysis from Anfield on the Liverpool Echo's dedicated LFC Facebook page"The German team's performance was particularly weak in the second half," they wrote. Germany had been in impressive form heading into the tournament, but concerns are mounting that the latest setback could trigger a further collapse and a premature exit."The 1-2 defeat against Ecuador, following eleven consecutive victories, highlighted the national team's vulnerability," they wrote.