Germany Preps for World Cup with Friendly vs Switzerland Despite Key Absences

BASEL, Switzerland, March 26: Germany will face Switzerland in a friendly on Friday as they prepare for the World Cup despite missing key players. Coach Julian Nagelsmann said the team remains strong despite the absence of Jamal Musiala, Felix Nmecha, Aleksandar Pavlovic, and goalkeeper Jonas Urbig, who withdrew with a knee injury.

Germany aims to reclaim its status as a global football power after early exits in 2018 and 2022. The tournament, co-hosted by Mexico, the U.S., and Canada, begins in June.

Nagelsmann emphasized the importance of consistent performance over results. "I want a courageous performance," he said. "It's how we play that matters."

Switzerland, also qualified for the World Cup, requested 11 substitutions for the match. Nagelsmann said he had no issue with the request but does not expect to make that many changes.

Germany is in Group E with Ecuador, Curacao, and Ivory Coast. Their first World Cup match is against Curacao in Houston on June 14.