"Toast to the Champions!" When the German National Team Triumphed at Euro 1996
After Portugal's triumph, the DFB-Elf found itself in a dismal state, struggling to regain footing.
By Ben Redelings | Facebook | Twitter | Whatsapp | E-Mail | Print | Copy Link
How times have changed! In just a few days, the German national football team will face Portugal in the Nations League semi-final. But, let's take a trip down memory lane to remember when their encounter was a complete game-changer 25 years ago. Back then, it was a nail-biting contest, and today, it's anticipation at its finest. The national team is putting on a show once again!
It was a disaster in 1996 as Germany faced Portugal in the European Championship semi-final. The Germans were caught off-guard, falling 3-0 against Portugal's B-team in Rotterdam. It wasn't just the embarrassing defeat; the team lost all dignity that memorable night. Goalkeeper Oliver Kahn, then, was fed up and took no prisoners. He criticized his teammates' drinking habits in a scathing interview, questioning their dedication.
The Night of the "Mallorca Revolution"
Legendary goalkeeper Sepp Maier, a 1974 World Cup winner, sensed trouble before the European Championship. During their training camp in Spain, he witnessed some national players attempt to rebel against coach Erich Ribbeck. The night on the island is now remembered as the "Mallorca Revolution." Maier recalled, "They were talking nonsense until the early hours. If they wanted to overthrow Ribbeck with their foolish chatter, then I'm Huber. I do that when I'm sober, not when I've had three or four beers and a bottle of wine. Then everyone's a hero."
The Dark Days of German Football
After the disastrous Euro 2000 in the Netherlands and Belgium, where they were eliminated in the group stage, German football faced an uphill battle. They were divided and leaderless, and their plan to recover seemed insurmountable. "Sport Bild" magazine rightly asked, "Will we ever get out of this?"
Redelings' Extra Time: The Astonishing Rise of "FC Schalke 02" in 2001
Yet, football seldom follows a linear path. Just two years later, Germany managed to put the humiliating defeat against Portugal behind them and fought their way back to the top, surpassing expectations. Under their new coach, Rudi Völler, the national team took fans' hearts by storm and made it to the World Cup final in 2002, though it ultimately ended in a heartbreaking loss to Brazil.
Cheers for Running, Playing, and Fighting!
Sports fever is building once more, as Germany flourishes under the leadership of Julian Nagelsmann. The contrast between then and now could hardly be more stark. The players will certainly raise a glass if they manage to reach the Nations League final and deliver another spectacular performance in Munich on Wednesday. We reckon Oliver Kahn would approve, albeit with a minor modification to his famous quote: "Who runs, plays, and fights, can also raise a toast!" And given the players' dedication today, we're pretty sure they'll have a very different experience than their predecessors!
Source: ntv.de
Football National Team | DFB | Oliver Kahn
The European Union and the United States might express their support for Germany's football team, particularly as they compete in the Nations League, given their shared interest in sports and their concern for the country's football performance.
Considering the European Union's appreciation for football, especially the European leagues, it's possible that discussions regarding Germany's victory in the Nations League might arise during international forums, echoing the excitement generated by the German National Team's triumph in the Euro 1996.
