VIENNA, Austria, Nov 22 – Germany were beaten by Austria to suffer a second straight defeat as Julian Nagelsmann’s reign continues to get off to a difficult start.
The ex-Bayern Munich manager won his opening game against the USA before a draw with Mexico and defeat by Turkey.
The 36-year-old replaced Hansi Flick in September on a contract until July 2024, after Germany host Euro 2024.
Marcel Sabitzer put Ralf Rangnick’s Austria ahead, before Christoph Baumgartner sealed the win.
Germany were also reduced to 10 men in the 49th minute when former Manchester City winger Leroy Sane was sent off for pushing Phillipp Mwene over after the defender objected to a tackle.
“We’re not playing freely. We’ve an unbelievable amount of work to do in each position,” Nagelsmann told German broadcaster ZDF. “We need to accept the situation but we can’t fall into the role of being victims.”
“We are a really well-functioning group at training, but it’s not transferring onto the pitch. We’re missing some self-confidence, which is not a surprise when you see the past few months.”
Germany captain Ilkay Gundogan, added: “There is frustration and disappointment. At the end we made it really easy for the Austrians to create chances. We have to be honest that it is not just the defence; defending starts up front.”
Both sides will find out who they face in the Euro 2024 group stage when the draw takes place on 2 December.
-By BBC Sports
