Thuram makes debut, Hofmann suffers injury

Highs and lows for Borussia’s internationals: Marcus Thuram made his debut for the France national side, but Jonas Hofmann was forced off the pitch due to injury in Germany’s friendly.

Marcus Thuram made his debut for the France national side. Borussia’s forward started in the 2-0 friendly defeat against Finland in Paris and almost marked the occasion with a goal; his 15th minute header hit the crossbar. Thuram nonetheless continued to be France’s most dangerous player, but was unable to get on the scoresheet despite several opportunities. The visitors were ruthless and used their only clear-cut chances in the game to win 2-0. Marcus Forss (28’) and Onni Valakari (31’) were the goalscorers.

Florian Neuhaus and Jonas Hofmann made their second international appearances in Germany’s 1-0 win against Czech Republic in a friendly in Leipzig. It was an early finish for Hofmann, however, who was substituted after just 18 minutes with a thigh injury. “Jonas has picked up a muscular injury,” said Germany head coach Joachim Löw. “An X-ray on Thursday morning should give us more information.” Neuhaus was one of Germany’s bright sparks, really driving their attacking play. He was also involved in the only goal of the night. His long-range shot was blocked by Czech keeper Pavlenka, but only as far as Philipp Max, whose ball to Luca Waldschmidt was placed home. Neuhaus was almost on the scoresheet himself in the 77th minute, but his effort hit the woodwork. “We missed the chance to build on our lead after scoring the opener,” said Borussia’s midfielder. “But at the end of the day, it’s important that we won and kept a clean sheet.”

Switzerland, with Breel Embolo in the starting line-up, were beaten 2-1 by Belgium in a friendly in Leuven. Yann Sommer and Nico Elvedi were rested and spent the game on the bench, whilst Embolo played the first 45 minutes. Admir Mehmedi gave the Swiss the lead (12’), but Belgium turned the game around through Michy Batshuayi (49’, 70’).

Valentino Lazaro and Austria won comprehensively in Luxembourg (3-0). Borussia’s winger played 58 minutes, whilst Stefan Lainer was rested. Austria took the lead through Gernot Trauner (62’) just after Lazaro was substituted. Adrian Grbic (83’) and Philipp Wiesinger (90+3’) made it a comfortable win in the end.