Low full of praise for Germany’s youngsters

Germany coach Joachim Low was quick to praise the younger members of his squad following their penalty shootout win over Italy on Saturday night.

Low’s men looked to have qualified for the semi-finals after midfielder Mesut Ozil scored the opening goal in the 65th minute.

However, the game was forced into extra time after Leonardo Bonucci scored a penalty before the end of 90 minutes. Neither team could find a way through in extra time but Low’s side eventually prevailed 6-5 on penalties.

Eighteen spot-kicks were needed and left-back Jonas Hector was the hero, as he capitalised on misses from Simone Zaza, Graziano Pelle, Leonardo Bonucci and Matteo Darmain.

Saturday’s win was Germany’s first over Italy in eight previous matches at major tournaments and Low was delighted with how his youngsters stepped up when it mattered most. Speaking after the game, Low said he was impressed with the calm shown among his younger players.

“I had no real influence on the penalty-takers,” he said. “Every player has to make that decision for himself then. “Our takers, one to five, were found quickly. Usually, we have good penalty-takers, even though they have not scored today. “It was great that the youngsters like (Joshua) Kimmich and Hector kept their nerves on such a stage. “It was a dramatic game, right up until the last shot. I have experienced something similar in 2006 in the World Cup against Argentina.”