German National Team Coach Irritated by Goalkeeper's Actions
In a rollercoaster ride of emotions, goalkeeper Ann-Katrin Berger has proven her resilience and determination in Germany's UEFA European Championship campaign. Despite facing personal health battles and criticism of her playing style, Berger has been a vital part of the team's success.
Berger, who was named Footballer of the Year 2024, celebrated her accolade in Birmingham but felt the need to prove herself in the Champions League. Her journey has been marked by numerous club transfers, from Turbine Potsdam to Paris Saint-Germain, Birmingham, and FC Chelsea, before her recent move to the USA last year.
During the tournament in France, Berger's long-pass accuracy was a point of concern, with only 38% of her long passes reaching their target. However, her exceptional saves and performances have been the focus, earning her a starting role for the national team.
Berger's health battles have been well-documented, with two diagnoses of thyroid cancer in 2017 and after the 2022 European Championship. The radioiodine therapy she underwent was the hardest part of her treatment, according to Berger. She was isolated in a hospital room for four days due to the therapy but was able to return to the field.
National coach Christian Wück has praised the team's "victory of mentality." Despite some initial concerns about Berger's playing style, Wück decided to keep her as the number one goalkeeper and was rewarded with her repaying the newfound trust in her at the tournament.
The German team faced a challenging match against Denmark. A goal by Klara Bühl was disallowed due to a VAR review, and Denmark went ahead in the game. However, the German team turned the game around in the second half, with Sjoeke Nüsken scoring a penalty and Lea Schüller securing the final score.
Berger collided with a Danish player during the game but was able to continue playing, showcasing her determination and courage. In a crucial moment of the bronze medal match against Spain at the Olympics, Berger saved a penalty kick just before the final whistle, securing a 1:0 victory and the medal for Germany.
The team's success has been a team effort, with key contributions from players like Stina Johannes, who is moving from Eintracht Frankfurt to VfL Wolfsburg, and Ena Mahmutovic from FC Bayern, who are also present at the tournament.
Despite the challenges, Berger feels "really good" about her play and plans to discuss her role with Wück. The future looks bright for both Berger and the German team as they continue their journey in the UEFA European Championship.
- Ann-Katrin Berger, having discussed her role with national coach Christian Wück, aims to further improve her game, particularly her long-pass accuracy, as she strives to solidify her position in the Champions League.
- Understanding the importance of health-and-wellness, especially mental health, for an athlete's performance, Berger plans to incorporate science-backed health and wellness routines into her vocational training regimen to better prepare for future competitions.
- During her spare time, Berger found solace in sports other than football, engaging in activities such as yoga, swimming, and running as part of her holistic health-and-wellness approach, forging a strong connection with the community through various health and wellness programs and initiatives.
