German media praise 'lynchpin' Florian Wirtz as Liverpool star excites vs Ghana

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The 22-year-old wasn't quite at his destructive best as was the case against Switzerland last week, but the Liverpool attacker showed his quality again in a tight contest

Florian Wirtz impressed again in the win over Ghana(Image: Getty Images)

Florian Wirtz played just over an hour in Germany’s victory against Ghana on Monday, as Julian Nagelsmann’s side beat Ghana 2-1 in Stuttgart.

The Liverpool star has enjoyed an encouraging international break and starred in last week’s 4-3 win over Switzerland. Wirtz provided two goals and two assists in the victory to cap an outstanding display.

His performance against Ghana drew fewer headlines in Germany, though there was appreciation that space was at a premium and he still fashioned several openings. Wirtz hit the post and saw a goal ruled out for offside, as the Black Stars sat in a deep low block, partly to nullify his creative talents.

The German media reaction was largely positive about his showing. Bild awarded him a two in its player ratings — the second highest on offer, with five or six being the lowest.

“The dream goal show from Basel almost continued immediately,” claimed the outlet. “After six minutes, he curled a free kick against the outside of the post!

“The attack was somewhat sluggish in the first half; when anything happened, it went through him.

"His dribbling was excellent, ultimately leading to the penalty."

Florian Wirtz impressed again for Germany against Ghana(Image: Getty Images)

German website T Online also gave Wirtz a rating of two and wrote: “Once again the linchpin of the German game. Initiated the first chance with a superb through ball to (Kai) Havertz (4th minute).

“Hit a free kick against the outside of the post (6th minute). Wasn't afraid to put in some defensive work. Scored a goal, but it was disallowed (33rd minute). Showed off some fine dribbling skills on occasion.”

Meanwhile, Munich outlet Abendzeitung awarded Wirtz a score of three, writing: “After the Basel gala with two fantastic goals and two assists. Defensively challenged against Ghana, he covered a lot of ground. He scored decisively and powerfully after a pass from Woltemade – but was offside.”

Germany secured victory via goals from Havertz and Deniz Undav. For Ghana, Abdul Fatawu finished off a slick move.

Like all international sides, this is Germany’s final game before Nagelsmann names his World Cup squad in the summer.

Die Mannschaft faces friendlies against Finland and the United States prior to the tournament, and then will play Curacao, Ivory Coast and Ecuador in the group stages.

Wirtz will certainly be part of the German squad, barring any late injury, and has missed just three of the country’s last 38 international games.