Germany striker Schuller is out of the match against Spain due to COVID-19


LONDON: Germany striker Lea Schuller has been ruled out of the top-flight Euro 2022 Group B game against Spain in Brentford on Tuesday after testing positive for COVID-19, the national team said.

Eight-time record Euro winner Germany said in a statement Schuller was self-isolating.

“A possible return to the squad will be decided together with UEFA in line with the necessary medical procedures,” he added.

Schuller headed Germany’s second goal in their opening 4-0 win over Denmark last Friday at Brentford’s Community Stadium.

Favorites Spain, who were without midfielder and Ballon d’Or winner Alexia Putellas on the eve of the tournament after the captain tore her cruciate ligament in training, defeated Finland 4-1 in the opening game.

Spain coach Jorge Vilda sympathized with Germany but doubted Schuller’s absence would be an important factor.

“Germany don’t need a player, they have a top-class squad,” he told reporters ahead of a training session. “I don’t think it’s going to change the game … they have a lot of options.”