Low demands focus from Germany in 2013

30 Dec 2012 5:50:00 PM

Die Mannschaft boss admits mistakes were made over the past year but hopes the next 12 months will demonstrate his side's evolution towards becoming a more resolute outfit

Joachim Low has urged his Germany players to move on from their heartbreaks in 2012 and channel all of their energies into the year ahead.

Die Mannschaft won plaudits for their growth over the past 12 months, including an unbeaten qualification campaign for Euro 2012, but they suffered a 2-1 loss at the hands of Italy in the semi-final of the tournament before squandering a four-goal lead against Sweden in October.

When quizzed about Germany's future prospects, their coach admitted that the spine of the team needs to strengthen, but maintained his belief that the nation can win the World Cup in two years' time.

"[2013 will be] the year of concentration. We have to get a few more percent out of this team," Low told Bild.

"We must do everything to improve our resilience, and by doing this, Germany can look forward to World Cup 2014."

"If something unexpected happens, we have often had a problem [dealing with it]. We've had our hand caught on the hot stove and it's burned us."

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