NEW YORK, June 21 (Xinhua) -- Germany central defender Nico Schlotterbeck could miss the rest of the World Cup after suffering an ankle injury in his side's tense 2-1 win over Cote d'Ivoire.
The Borussia Dortmund defender was replaced by Antonio Rudiger at halftime after picking up the injury in the first half.
Speaking after the match, Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann said Schlotterbeck had suffered damage to the ligaments in his ankle.
"He has an injury to the internal ligaments of his ankle," Nagelsmann said, adding that the outlook "doesn't look good."
Schlotterbeck has yet to undergo further tests, but a lengthy absence would be a significant setback for Germany, with the 26-year-old having established himself as a regular starter alongside Jonathan Tah in central defense.
Germany at least has some breathing room after rallying to beat Cote d'Ivoire, a result that secured top spot in Group E and a place in the knockout stage.
With qualification already assured, Nagelsmann will have the opportunity to rotate his squad for Germany's final group match against Ecuador. ■
