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Four-time champions Germany were knocked out of FIFA World Cup 2022 in the group stage itself as Spain lost to Japan. Germany also lost to Japan in their opening fixture and suffered a severe dent in their qualification chances. Although they defeated Croatia in their final group-stage game, the 1-1 draw against Spain did not help Germany’s cause. This was Germany’s second consecutive early exit from a World Cup.
The four-time champions had failed to advance to the second round at the 2018 FIFA World Cup as well. It was Germany’s earliest exit in 80 years. Now, as they crashed out of the tournament for the second time, team director Oliver Bierhoff has decided to give up on his job two years before it was supposed to end.
"Oliver Bierhoff has won a lot of merits for the DFB," said DFB President Bernd Neuendorf in a statement. "Even if the last few tournaments lagged behind the sporting goals that had been set, he will be associated with big moments."
Bierhoff had been in his post as Team Director for 18 years and had played a crucial role in the team’s fourth World Cup title win. Referring to the same Neuendorf said his efforts won’t be forgotten. "He will always be linked with the World Cup success in Brazil," he added. "Even in turbulent times he always followed goals and visions."
It’s worth mentioning that along with failing to advance to the second round of two World Cups, Germany also failed to advance past the round of 16 at Euro 2020 last year.
South Korea coach also steps down
South Korea coach Paulo Bento also gave up his job post his team’s exit from the FIFA World Cup 2022 in Qatar. As South Korea lost 1-4 to Brazil in their Round of 16 clash, Bento said he won’t continue as the coach.
"Now I need to think about the future, but I will not be with the Korea team. I am going to rest and then see," the 53-year-old former Portugal coach said after the loss in the last 16. "I have just told the players and the president of the national federation.”
