by Oliver Trust

BERLIN, June 7 (Xinhua) -- Watching a match between Spain and France is part of the job for national team members, said German international Deniz Undav.

"We don't watch games like that as fans, no matter how turbulent it might be. We try to analyze and take a closer look at tactics and evaluate situations," said the 28-year-old Stuttgart striker ahead of the UEFA Nations League Final Four clash against France on Sunday afternoon in Stuttgart.

While disappointment over the 2-1 semifinal defeat to Portugal has faded, "we are still one of the leading teams," the forward said.

National coach Julian Nagelsmann's side is aware of "what was missing against Portugal. We talked about the lack of energy right after the game."

"We are among the best, but only when we invest 100 percent, all of us," added the five-time capped player.

Looking ahead to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Undav said that beating the 2022 world champions isn't the main goal. Instead, the aim is "to deliver a convincing game to gain confidence on the road to the World Cup."

Replacing injured players such as Jamal Musiala, Antonio Rudiger and Kai Havertz remains a challenge, but Undav believes the team can improve on their performance against the 2016 European champions and 2019 Nations League winners.

Undav is expected to replace club teammate Nick Woltemade in the attack, with tactical adjustments likely.

After the team struggled with a back three against Ronaldo and his teammates, a return to a traditional four-man defense appears imminent.

"This Sunday we have the chance to prove our quality," Undav added.

Sporting director Rudi Voller spoke of a test of mentality and urged patience after a defeat that triggered frustration.

"It's important to stay calm and get behind the things," said the 65-year-old 1990 World Cup winner.

"Not everything has been bad," the 1993 Champions League winner added. "The right conclusions will help the team to head back to success," said the former Leverkusen, Roma and Marseille striker.

Facing top-level opposition "is exactly what you need ahead of a World Cup."

Voller believes the French team, featuring Real Madrid star Kylian Mbappe, is undoubtedly among the elite.

Voller called for a stronger performance, saying "this game is important for the team's spirit."

He warned that recent positive results may have led to a false sense of security. "The important message must be, 'to invest 100 percent in every game.' Giving just a few percent less turns things upside down," he said.

A win in front of Stuttgart's traditionally enthusiastic crowd would greatly impact the national mood, Voller added.

He described the Portugal loss as a minor setback, "far from an accident having damaged the car." ■