Florian Wirtz netted Germany’s quickest-ever international goal just seven seconds into the match, setting the stage for their morale-boosting 2-0 victory over France in a friendly on Saturday.
This win marks Germany’s first victory in their last four matches, providing a timely confidence boost ahead of Euro 2024, which they will host in June.
The goal came as a surprise to the French side, with Wirtz striking from long range to notch his first international goal.
The well-executed move originated from Toni Kroos, who made a comeback from a three-year absence from international duty.
Wirtz’s goal broke the previous record set by Lukas Podolski, whose seventh-second strike against Ecuador in 2013 had held the title for the fastest goal scored by a German player in international competition.
The hosts gradually took control and Kylian Mbappé forced a fine save from Germany’s Marc-André ter Stegen to protect their lead in the 26th minute.
“We had a very good start and the kickoff was planned exactly that way,” Germany’s Nagelsmann said.
“It was important to protect the lead and after the break we improved further and carved out more chances. I am very satisfied with the way we fought. It is what we wish, to give it all every time.
“We got a confidence boost from this game. We are on a good path and played a very good game today.”
Despite France’s efforts to equalize, it was Germany who extended their lead further. The German team, seeking to improve upon their recent record of just two wins in their last 10 matches, found success early in the second half.
Florian Wirtz delivered a precise cross to Jamal Musiala, who then set up Kai Havertz to score the second goal for Germany. As the match progressed, France struggled to generate scoring opportunities, and their attempts were thwarted by the German defense.
Late in the game, substitute Olivier Giroud missed two chances for France, while Germany’s Antonio Ruediger inadvertently hit the post while attempting to clear the ball, adding to the drama of the match.
“We weren’t there, that’s obvious,” said France coach Didier Deschamps after his 150th game in charge. “The Germans played a high level match today. When we see our start to the match, with this goal, we are standing still.
“The Germans did things better than us. In terms of commitment and aggression, we were below. The first person to blame is me,” he added.
Germany play the Netherlands on Tuesday when France face Chile.