The World Cup rollercoaster shows no sign of slowing down. While the spotlight in the knockout stages naturally falls on the pitch, the biggest story...
The World Cup rollercoaster shows no sign of slowing down. While the spotlight in the knockout stages naturally falls on the pitch, the biggest story in German football this Friday has erupted off it. According to GoalZaza sources, Julian Nagelsmann is set to resign as Germany coach following a reported three hour secret summit with senior DFB officials in Frankfurt. At just 38 years of age, his departure would mark another chapter in the ongoing turbulence surrounding the Nationalmannschaft. When a manager of his tactical acumen is forced into a clandestine meeting to discuss his future, you have to ask: is the federation's house truly in order, or is there a deeper rot that no amount of low block drills can fixOn the field, Portugal have navigated their way into a mouthwatering Iberian derby with Spain, surviving a VAR heavy passage of play that will have neutrals and purists alike debating for days. The drama was thick enough to cut with a knife. Portugal's transitional play was sharp, but Spain's ability to retain possession will ask serious questions of a Portuguese defence that looked vulnerable when forced into a high line. It is a fixture that feels like a final before the final. Clinical finishing from either side could be the difference, and given the history between these two nations, squeaky bum time is guaranteed.Elsewhere, there is excellent news for Australia and their travelling faithful. Mohamed Salah has been declared fit to face the Socceroos. For a man who thrives on the biggest stages, his availability turns a tricky fixture into a monumental task for the green and gold. Expect him to test their defensive line early, using his explosive pace to exploit any space left behind a backline that cannot afford to park the bus too deep. If Australia sit off him, he will punish them. If they press high, he will run in behind. It is a tactical conundrum that will require perfect execution.And to the managerial carousel. Ange Postecoglou, currently plying his trade across the globe, is being tipped for a return to international management with Japan. The Asian number one side, according to GoalZaza analysis, need more than just a figurehead. They need a man who can walk the walk, not just talk the talk. Postecoglou's philosophy of relentless attacking football and his ability to rebuild a squad from the ground up make him the ideal candidate. The federation in Tokyo must act swiftly and secure his signature on a lengthy contract, because when the summer comes, he will be in high demand. If they hesitate, someone else will snap him up, and Japan will be left wondering what might have been.
