Overview
- Germany closed preparation with back-to-back wins over Croatia (32:29 in Zagreb, 33:27 in Hannover), entering the European Championship on a high.
- Alfred Gislason expanded the central block by naming Tom Kiesler and Matthes Langhoff, and the Wolff–Späth goalkeeper tandem delivered standout form, including 18 Wolff saves in Hannover.
- The 18-man squad has relocated to its base in Silkeborg and opens the tournament against Austria on Thursday evening.
- Despite improved form, players and staff caution the draw is unforgiving, with Austria, Serbia and Spain in the group and likely meetings with Denmark and France in the main round.
- In domestic football, Dortmund face a five-match January with a striker decision between Serhou Guirassy and Fabio Silva, Mainz prepare for a relegation fight with Heidenheim, and Dresden’s bid for Andi Hoti remains stalled after Magdeburg reportedly rejected a written offer.