Wück's World Cup stress test pushes German women without Berger

Ohne Berger, Freigang Wücks WM-Stresstest: after a four‑month hiatus, the German women’s national team under head coach Christian Wück launches its World Cup build‑up with two high‑level friendlies, but does so without goalkeeper Ann‑Katrin Berger and with forward Laura Freigang retained despite a disciplinary case.

Home tests against Australia and Japan

Nach einer viermonatigen Pause, the squad reconvenes for the first home test. The first match takes place on 9 October in Karlsruhe against Australia, followed by a game on 13 October in Bremen versus Japan. Wück said, “Das werden zwei Spiele auf hohem Niveau, die uns auf ganz andere Art fordern als gegen europäische Teams”. These Tests are designed to push the team beyond the usual European style.

Squad composition and key absences

The 24‑player roster features eleven players employed by clubs abroad – the highest ever for the German side. Six of those come from the English Women’s Super League, including Sjoeke Nüsken (Chelsea), Lea Schüller (Manchester United), Vivien Endemann (Liverpool), Carlotta Wamser (Manchester City), Selina Cerci (Hoffenheim) and 19‑year‑old Lisa Baum (Arsenal). All Aus‑based players add valuable experience.

Ann‑Katrin Berger, the regular goalkeeper from US club Gotham FC, is omitted after agreeing with the coaching staff to pause her involvement. Wück explained, “It was the right moment because she is in the heated phase of the league in America”.

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Ena Mahmutovic (Bayern Munich), Stina Johannes (VfL Wolfsburg) and Laura Dick (TSG Hoffenheim) have all been listed as options between the posts, ensuring depth while Berger remains unavailable.

Eintracht Frankfurt captain Laura Freigang stays in the squad despite an ongoing disciplinary procedure. DFB women’s football director Nia Künzer said, “Laura is eligible to play; she has earned her place with her performances”.

Future fixtures and World Cup pathway

Wück also plans two further friendlies on another continent at the end of November or early December, with a confirmed trip to the Americas. He added that the “idea of the games is not the same as we know in Europe”, hinting at different playing conditions.

Beyond the friendlies, the team must also navigate Olympic qualification through the Nations League before the World Cup in Brazil in June‑July 2027. The stress‑test approach aims to ready the squad for the challenges ahead.