Antonio Rudiger injury ‘problematic’ for Germany last-16 game at Euro 2024

Antonio Rudiger injury ‘problematic’ for Germany last-16 game at Euro 2024

Antonio Rudiger could be a doubt for Germany’s last-16 game at the European Championship with a thigh injury.

The Real Madrid defender, 31, played the full the game as the tournament hosts came from behind to draw 1-1 with Switzerland to top Group A.

Rudiger is a key player for Julian Nagelsmann and has played every minute of all three matches so far.

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The coach admits Rudiger’s issue could be “problematic” for his availability next time out with fellow central defender Jonathan Tah suspended after picking up two yellow cards.

“He has a bit of a problem with his thigh,” Nagelsmann said. “We’ll have to see. I hope it’s nothing serious. We’ll see. That could be quite problematic.”

Germany will next face the team who comes second in Group C – England, Denmark, Slovenia or Serbia – on June 29, with any absence for the experienced Rudiger, who has 71 caps for his country, potentially an important one.

Nico Schlotterbeck, of Borussia Dortmund, and Stuttgart’s Waldemar Anton would be likeliest to come in if Rudiger is ruled out.

Nagelsmann was satisfied with how his side salvaged a draw against the Swiss but acknowledged their display was far from perfect.

“In the end it’s a well-deserved point,” he said. “Of course, on the counter, you take risks and can concede. We did well to come back. We deserved to equalise and did well, tactically.

“It’s important to have players who can score decisive goals coming on as substitutes. We analyse the opponents in order to pick the starting line-up, then you can bring in different players from the bench.”

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The Briefing: Switzerland 1-1 Germany - Fullkrug is the saviour but hosts look vulnerable

(Thomas Kienzle/AFP via Getty Images)

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