Podolski departs in style
Print Edition
LUKAS Podolski admitted his Germany farewell could not have been scripted better after netting a superb winner in the 1-0 friendly win over England.
It was only fitting that the Galatasaray forward should claim his 49th goal on his 130th — and final — international appearance in Wednesday’s farewell.
“The way it finished up was like in a film,” said Podolski, who smashed home the winning goal on 69 minutes, then came off to thunderous applause with six minutes left.
“Dear god, or someone else, gave me a strong left foot and I used it tonight. I am proud of the last 13 years,” beamed Podolski, who will join Japan’s Vissel Kobe next season.
“It was a great game, a great result and a great way to say goodbye.”
Podolski captained the world champion to its first win over old rival England on home soil since 1987.
The victory was also sweet for head coach Joachim Loew as it was a record seventh game without conceding a goal for Germany, a run starting since its Euro 2016 semifinal defeat to France.
Podolski turned the friendly Germany’s way with the superb winner on 69 minutes. Andre Schuerrle laid the ball off for Podolski, whose bullet shot off his left foot gave England goalkeeper Joe Hart no chance from 25 meters out.
“Normally fairytales don’t happen in football but that was one for him,” Southgate said of Podolski’s stunning goal.
“It’s an outstanding achievement in terms of the goals and caps he has.
“It was an incredible strike, but from Joe Hart’s point of view it was pretty unstoppable. But the result fulfilled a purpose for us.”
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