The squad is now based in Sao Paulo, the venue for this crucial match. Brandt took time out to answer a few questions for DFB TV.
Julian, being in the semis sounds good – What’s your assessment of the Olympics so far?
Brandt: “It’s getting better and better. We got to off to a bumpy start but we picked it up with the game against Fiji (10-0, editor’s note). It must have boosted our confidence.”
It worked out well. The quarter-final brought a 4-0 win against Portugal.
Brandt: “Yes, that game showed everybody what our team can do. It was really good. I hope it gets even better against Nigeria.”
How do you think Wednesdays’ game will go?
Brandt: “Nigeria are strong up front, quick and their play is a bit crazy. I mean that as a positive as they often take risks. I’m looking forward to finding out all about them in the pre-match analysis. But I don’t think we need to be afraid of them.”
You’ve had the highest number of assists in the tournament so far. Are you saving your first goal for the semi-final?
Brandt: (laughs) “It would be great if I could score too but I’m happy with my role so far. I definitely want to beat Nigeria and I don’t care how we go through whether it’s a goal from me, my assist or even an own goal from the opposition if it has to be.
Bayer 04 will be preparing young talents for a potential sporting career in an even more systematic way in future. The club is breaking new ground to help develop their academic, social and personal skills as well. With the ‘Haus der Talente' or 'Talent House’, Bayer 04 Leverkusen Fußball GmbH is creating a new centre for the development of young athletes in a central location in Leverkusen. Once completed – expected to be in the summer of 2027 – the project will be run in partnership with TSV Bayer 04 Leverkusen e.V.
Show more
Werkself-TV shows the highlights of the Bayer 04 women's 1-3 loss against Werder Bremen on the 26th matchday of the Google Pixel Frauen-Bundesliga 2025/26.
Show more
Bayer 04 Women have finished in fifth place after the best Bundesliga season in the club's history in terms of points. Roberto Pätzold's side went down 3-1 at home to SV Werder Bremen on the final matchday. With 46 points and 15 wins, they've bettered the previous record campaign of 2024/25. Despite periods of pressure, Cornelia Kramer's 73rd-minute strike was not enough at the Ulrich-Haberland-Stadion, and the Werkself miss out on European qualification despite a strong end to the season.
Show more
Bayer 04 Leverkusen have agreed a conract extension with home-grown talent Sofie Zdebel by a further year ahead of schedule. The 21-year-old Germany U23 international will stay at the club until 30 June 2028.
Show more
