Joshua Kimmich: “We want to beat the Spanish.”

On Saturday, Joshua Kimmich was part of the Germany side that overcame a resilient Denmark team 2-0 in the round of 16 at Euro 2024.

In what was a drama-filled evening, with Mother Nature and VAR at the centre of attention, Julian Nagelsmann’s side were able to ensure their progression to the quarter-final stage.

This meant that Germany knew that they would meet whoever came out victorious from Spain’s clash with Georgia on Sunday night. Despite a shaky start, it would be the Spaniards to prevail 4-1, confirming it would be the hosts facing off against the side that have become the favourites in the eyes of many.

Having won all four of their games so far at Euro 2024, Spain have been exhilarating to watch, something that Kimmich noted in the DFB press conference on Monday afternoon: 

“The Spaniards make the most stable impression and have won their games very confidently. They played very well. I think it will be a good game; every neutral fan can look forward to it. I don’t know whether the Spaniards were happy to have us in the quarter-finals. You look forward to games like this.”

Nevertheless, Kimmich explained that he, along with the rest of the Germany squad, is looking forward to facing Spain, whom he believes are beatable.

“We want to beat the Spanish in a tournament. That is absolutely our goal. Spain is a team that wants to control the game. But we want that too. We need dynamism, courage, and power. Hopefully, we will also have the home advantage. In the end, it is our responsibility on the pitch to take the fans with us.” 

One area that will be key to Germany’s success is stopping the excellence of Nico Williams and Lamine Yamal on the wings for Spain. The pair have made for breathtaking viewing, and Kimmich highlighted that Germany will need to be prepared for their influence. 

“They have two good guys on the wings. It will be very interesting; we have to find solutions as a team. Let’s see what happens.”

The Bayern Munich star is expected to be the one defending Williams on Friday, having filled in at right back for Nagelsmann thus far at Euro 2024. However, Kimmich stated that he is not thinking about forcing his way back into midfield and is fully focused on the tournament.

“The role hasn’t changed that much. I tried to win at number six, and now I’m trying to win as a right-back. It’s not about making any progress; it’s just about winning. The role is relatively unimportant.” 

GGFN | Will Shopland