Under the new leadership of Wuck – who took charge in October – and a new-look youthful squad, Germany arrived at Euro 2025 with modest expectations.
Statistics experts Opta said they, along with France, had a 15% chance of winning the title, with Spain and England listed as the favourites.
“Germany weren’t seen as a title favourite due to the fact the team is in a state of upheaval,” Affeldt added.
“After the disappointing result at the World Cup in 2023, leading players such as Alexander Popp have retired from the national team and there are also some new faces now like Franziska Kett, Rebecca Knaak or Giovanna Hoffmann.”
Bruch explained there were also concerns over Germany’s defence and an apparent over-reliance on flair players like Jule Brand and Klara Buhl.
Affeldt said fans had “lost faith” after Germany’s defeat against Sweden, with many thinking it confirmed their pre-tournament doubts.
“But it has now been rekindled,” she said. “Now many people think that winning the title might be possible after all, even if there are teams with even better players.”
Bruch agrees there is more belief among Germany fans, adding: “The belief in winning the title has grown significantly due to the way Germany performed, with this sheer willpower and great fighting spirit.
“It showed that Christian Wuck’s team has developed a certain resilience, never gives up and is capable of turning a game around.”
