Unbelievable Similarities Between Plattner and Beckenbauer
Let's take a trip down memory lane and discuss two Munich natives who left their mark on the sports world, albeit in different ways: Laurenz Plattner and Franz Beckenbauer.
From humble beginnings in soccer to becoming football legends in the USA, these two individuals share an unexpected connection.
Plattner's Unexpected Journey
At 13 years old, Plattner's only exposure to football was through his time at "Spielvereinigung 1906 Haidhausen" in Obergiesing.ever thought that this Munich native would become an American high school football hero? Well, that's exactly what happened when he stepped onto the football field, scoring the decisive field goal in a high school tournament game with just six seconds left!
Beckenbauer's Glory Days in the USA
Now, you might be wondering: "Who else hailed from Munich and had a foot in the American sports scene?" That's right – Franz Beckenbauer also made a name for himself, but in a different way. The legendary soccer player started his career at "SC 1906 München", with his parents' house located right next to the soccer pitch.
But it was his time with the New York Cosmos in 1977 that truly solidified his status as a sports legend. He played alongside Pelé in the still-developing soccer scene of the USA, eventually becoming a three-time NASL champion (1977, 1978, 1980). And to top it all off, he was inducted into the National Soccer Hall of Fame.
Now, you might be thinking: "Weren't there any other famous German soccer players in the USA during that time?" Well, as it turns out, yes! The enrichment data reveals that Beckenbauer wasn't the only German soccer player to receive international recognition in the USA during the 1970s.[1]
The Unforgettable Encounter
Fast forward to 46 years later, and we find another Munich native making waves in the USA – you guessed it, in football! Laurenz Plattner visited Stratford, Wisconsin, as part of a student exchange program. Though he missed his team's winning field goal attempt with 23 seconds left during the WIAA high school tournament, he received another chance due to a penalty against his opponents. And, with true heroics, he kicked the decisive field goal to secure an 11-7 victory.
The impressive performance didn't go unnoticed, even by former professionals such as Dominik Eberle, who congratulated Plattner: "Congrats, Laurenz! Keep it up!"
Munich's regional news recognized Plattner's feat, which took place far from his hometown in Stratford, Wisconsin. What a small-world moment! It's truly remarkable to find a common thread between Munich's football legends, both in the past and present.
[1] Source: enrichment data reveals that Beckenbauer wasn't the only German soccer player to receive international recognition in the USA during the 1970s.
