Germany must find a way without superstar Dzsenifer Marozsan

Germany will miss one of the best players in the world for the remainder of the Women’s World Cup group stages, as midfielder Dzsenifer Marozsan is out with a fractured toe.

Among the favorites to hoist the Women’s World Cup trophy in Lyon, France and become three time champions, Germany will have to survive the remainder of the group stages without their best player. According to manager Martina Voss-Tecklenburg, Marozsan suffered a fractured toe during Germany’s opening contest, even though she didn’t exit the match with the injury.

Marozsan has been ruled out for Germany’s remaining group stage matches against Spain and South Africa. She could also miss the rest of the tournament.

It’s a huge blow for a team that didn’t look convincing against China, as they needed a brilliant finish from 19-year-old Giulia Gwinn to secure all three points.

That said, Germany did find a way against a tough China team that created dangerous counter-attack opportunities, and they must likewise find a way without one of their leaders and one of the best players in the world. In 2018, Marozsan was third in the Ballon d’Or voting, and she is a superstar for the world’s best club, Lyon.

Germany do have players capable of stepping up in her absence. Though young, Gwinn is a rising star and has been a critical component of Germany’s youth teams; she’ll continue to have a big say on the tournament. Lina Magull could start in Marozsan’s place, as the Bayern Munich standout received playing time as a substitute against China. Furthermore, Magull once captained Germany to a U-20 World Cup, and the 24-year-old has also achieved a great deal of success at the club level for both Freiburg and Wolfsburg.

Even without Marozsan for two games, Germany have star power in their starting lineup. Marozsan is one of the best players in the world and will be missed, but PSG midfielder Sara Dabritz is another elite talent who can step up in her absence.

As tough as it is to lose Marozsan for games against a sleeper South Africa side and a technically gifted Spain squad, Germany have three points in the bag and should still be able to make it to the knockout stages with her. In the meantime, Germany could become more dangerous under this adversity, especially if players like Gwinn can shine. If Marozsan returns for the knockout stages after her toe heals, Germany could be in a better position to make a push for their third title.

Hopefully Marozsan’s recovery goes smoothly, and she can play at some point in this tournament. It’s always tough watching players get injured, especially in World Cups. Marozsan has provided football fans with some incredible moments over her career, and she would be part of a few more in this World Cup if she returns, assuming Germany do indeed survive Group B without her.