Florian Wirtz Explains What Was ‘Special’ About Germany Win Over Serbia

Germany picked up their first win of the Jurgen Klopp era, and Liverpool man Florian Wirtz had his fingerprints all over the triumph.

Die Mannschaft overcame Serbia 2-0 at the Allianz Arena for their first UEFA Nations League win of this window.

For Wirtz, it was a very good day, and he told reporters after the game that it was a special occasion for him.

He will be expected to replicate the performance when they take on Greece in Thessaloniki next week.

Wirtz Shares How Captaincy Made Him Feel

Germany coach Jurgen Klopp spoke glowingly about Florian Wirtz last week and handed him his first start of this international window against Serbia.

He played just behind striker Nick Woltemade, enjoying the freedom to move around the final third as he wished.

The former Bayer Leverkusen man also received the captain's armband for a brief period of the second half, explaining to reporters after the game that it made him feel special to captain his country, even if it was for a few minutes.

"I am so happy! It was incredibly enjoyable. Wearing the captain’s armband is something special. It makes you proud”.

He also explained that the movement from his teammates on and off the ball, and their eagerness to make things happen made it a lot easier for him to shine.

"There was a lot of movement in our game, and we were all eager to play football. That makes it easier to shine”.

Wirtz enjoyed a fine performance that included a goal in the second half, playing for 90 minutes. After the full-time whistle, he exchanged a hug with Klopp, as the coach showed his appreciation for the talented midfielder.

Florian Wirtz Impresses in Germany Win

Having made an appearance off the bench in the disappointing defeat to Greece, Wirtz was part of a completely changed XI fielded by Klopp.

The 23-year-old started the game as he meant to go on, playing a key role in connecting the midfield with the attack.

He was heavily involved in the opening exchanges, and it was no surprise that a goal came from his endeavour.

In the 39th minute, he weaved his way around a challenge as he entered into the box, before poking the ball goalwards, beating Serbia goalkeeper Djordje Petrovic. His effort came back off the frame of the goal, but Tom Bischof was on hand to slam home the rebound.

Wirtz produced his first goal of the season for club or country in the 61st minute with a typically elegant finish.

He received the ball from Maximilian Mittelstadt and with one touch, got away from Srdjan Babic before giving Petrovic the eyes and sending him the wrong way from inside the box.

Wirtz ended the game having created six chances and registered eight touches in the opposition box, both game-high numbers.

He completed 95% of his passes and 67% of his dribbles, while he attempted three shots, two of which led to goals.

Germany needed a fine performance after the criticism levelled against them by legend Bastian Schweinsteiger this week.

They will look to conclude the window on a high when they face unbeaten Greece next week.