Merkel versus Schulz

In the great debate between Angela Merkel and Martin Schulz this evening across a number of German television stations it seems there is no big change.

Merkel won on competency and trust. Martin Schulz proved closer to the people.

The Chancellor proved the more convincing. Merkel 55 per cent, 35 per cent for Schulz.

Fifty four per cent said Schulz performed better than expected.

But there was no knock-out punch.

One seasoned commentator said that it was no real debate, too much harmony and Germany is set for another 'Grand Coalition'.

Der Spiegel's Christaine Hoffmann believes that the situation is far more 'fragile' than the polls are saying. She also thinks that there is a large proportion of voters who are keeping their cards close to their chest.

After the debate many said it was certainly not a duel, instead a duet.