Astonishing. Shocking. Surreal. That’s how everyone reacted when Germany were shown the exit door after a 0-2 humiliation at the hands of South Korea.

The defending champions, who have been ever present in the last four of previous editions, and one of the firm favorites, were simply abysmal and dismal. They kept the ball well, but couldn’t create or score goals.

A team known for its attacking prowess showed no signs of intent whatsoever, and looked far away from the team that was feared and respected. It’s an absolute calamity – finishing bottom of the group, players not showing up in games, and lack of passion and grit – the questions will be asked of players and management.

The talent and depth in the squad made people pick Germany as favorites for the crown. There wouldn’t have been any, who in wildest of dreams would have thought of Die Mannschaft making an early exit. But as things stand, Germany are headed home.

Why did it come to this? Who is to blame? Where did it all fall apart?

Here are the reasons why:

Leroy Sane’s omission from the squad

The decision to leave out Leroy Sane, who had a wonderful season with Manchester City, came as a shock. A pacy forward, with skill and ability to make things happen, didn’t find a place in the 23-man squad.

The 22-year-old, who last was named PFA Young Player of the Year, scored 10 goals and provided 15 assists for City as they cruised to the Premier League title as well as the Carabao Cup.

In place of Sane, it was Julian Brandt who made it to the squad. The Bayer Leverkusen man showed promise in cameo roles, but didn’t really influence the game. A player like Leroy Sane, who could play anywhere in the forward line, and produce a moment of magic. amiss from the Germany squad.

Misfiring forward line

There can be no excuses, but Germany’s forwards have been absolutely terrible. In three games, Germany only managed to score two goals, while they conceded four.

Of the two goals, only one was scored by a forward – Marco Reus. The other was a brilliantly taken goal by Germany’s shining light in dark times – Toni Kroos.

So much was expected of young striker Timo Werner, but he flattered to deceive. He couldn’t take his chances, and looked out of place.

Julian Draxler, experienced campaigner Mario Gomez, Julian Brandt, and ever reliable Thomas Muller all failed to deliver. For most parts, they never looked like scoring – something you don’t associate with a team like Germany.

Nervy and edgy backline

Germany’s defence looked short on confidence and all over the place. In Russia, Germany were nowhere near the compact unit which conceded just four goals in seven games at the 2014 World Cup.

First-choice centre-backs Mats Hummels and Jerome Boateng are short of pace and too often left to fend for themselves at the back.