Germany being 'punished for winning the group', says Nagelsmann

Germany secured top spot in Group E with a game to spare after a thrilling 2-1 comeback win over Ivory Coast in Toronto.

However, head coach Julian Nagelsmann criticised the knockout stage schedule, saying winning the group has created an unnecessary challenge.

Germany will face a third-placed team from Groups A, B, C, D or F in Boston on Monday.

Their opponents, however, will not be confirmed until the final group matches finish on Saturday night.

Nagelsmann believes the delayed confirmation puts extra pressure on teams that finish first.

“I don't think it's ideal that you're somewhat punished for winning the group. I'm not a big fan of it,” he said.

“Anyone can imagine that there are better setups than scrubbing through footage all Saturday night, only to present the opponent to the team on Sunday.”

Germany’s coaching staff have already started preparing for multiple possible opponents to avoid being caught off guard.

Nagelsmann revealed that his team has divided scouting duties among several potential opponents.

“We have divided up the opponents that are most likely,” Nagelsmann said.

“I’ve watched a bit, our analysis team has watched some. We have all already watched three or four games of the potential opponents.

“We can work through the night once in a while, it's not that bad,” he added.

Before the knockout stage, Germany will play their final group match against Ecuador on Thursday.

The result will not affect Germany’s position as group winners, but Ecuador still need points to boost their qualification hopes.

Nagelsmann is expected to rotate his squad in the match as Germany manage player fatigue before the knockout rounds.

The team will also have to deal with a demanding travel schedule ahead of their last-16 match in Boston.