Schlotterbeck ruled out of World Cup

Germany’s march into the World Cup knockout stage has been overshadowed by a major injury setback, with defensive pillar Nico Schlotterbeck ruled out of the tournament after suffering ligament damage in his left ankle.

The German centre-back picked up the injury during their 2-1 win over Ivory Coast on June 20. Although Schlotterbeck initially attempted to continue, he was forced to leave the field before the end of the first half as the severity of the injury became apparent.

A subsequent MRI scan confirmed ligament damage in his left ankle, bringing an early end to the 24-year-old defender’s World Cup journey.

Schlotterbeck had been one of Germany’s most reliable defensive options during the tournament. Head coach Julian Nagelsmann described the injury as a significant setback for the team.

“Schlotti is a very important player for us, both on and off the field. This could have been his World Cup,” Nagelsmann said, adding that the team would miss him.

Germany are now expected to turn to Antonio Rudiger as their defensive leader in the knockout rounds. The Real Madrid star impressed after coming off the bench against Ivory Coast and is likely to feature from the start in the last-16 match.

The injury comes as Germany appear to have regained confidence on the world stage. After disappointing group-stage exits in the 2018 and 2022 World Cups, the four-time champions have already booked their place in the knockout phase with two successive wins this time.

TZ