Despite Neuer’s confidence, criticism has continued to grow. Former Germany captain Lothar Matthaus questioned the veteran’s display, arguing that he approached the decisive moment too cautiously.
“He goes there too tentatively. He was was too timid, that is not the Neuer we know,” he stated, as quoted by Waz.
The scrutiny extends beyond a single mistake. Neuer has conceded four goals in three group-stage matches, with the first shot on target in each game beating him. His return as Germany’s first-choice goalkeeper after a two-year international absence has also reignited debate, particularly after Oliver Baumann impressed during the qualifying campaign and the final warm-up match against the United States before being dropped.
