Super striker Miroslav Klose, who is just one goal away from equalling Brazilian Ronaldo’s record of 15 WC goals, tells DNA in an
exclusive interview that Germany are proud of their performance. The 32-year-old veteran talks about coach Loew, the exciting Mueller and the ‘non-existent’ captaincy rift.
What exactly went wrong against Spain?
We were too busy with defence. The Spaniards were clever enough to push up the ground. Once we were in possession of the ball, we tried to do too many things with it but it didn’t work. We tried to slow down the pace of the game but weren’t able to. We also didn’t go forward as much as we had during the tournament. I’m disappointed that we did not go through to the final.
Twice in this tournament, the team failed to rally. Is this a lesson for the youngsters?
Obviously, this experience will help these players a lot in the future. It’s a good learning curve for them. Having said that, all youngsters have done exceedingly well. They are the bunch of players to watch out for in the future.
Germany’s performance in the World Cup has taken many by surprise. How would you assess your team’s show?
We always knew that as a team we had the quality in us to lift the trophy. Unfortunately, we stumbled in the semifinals but even that is a creditable performance. The team has been in great shape right through the tournament. We gelled well as a unit and that showed on the pitch. We put up a couple of perfect performances and we are proud the way we played.
Just how influential has Joachim Loew been to the team?
He is the backbone of our team. He is such a different coach. The fact that he is young, dynamic and more importantly a very nice human being, helps him gel well with the team. He has a great vision and knows how to get the best out of a player and that is one of the most important things as a coach.
The revelation of this tournament has been Thomas Mueller. Do you think he is the next big thing in German football?
Oh yes, for sure. Thomas has brought in great pace in the side and scored a few crucial goals in this World Cup. One thing I like about him is his eagerness to learn. But it is important for him not to lose focus now. If he carries on playing like this, then I am sure he will be one of the most successful strikers.
Did you guys miss Michael Ballack?
A player like Ballack is vital for any team. He has ample experience and that is handy at this stage. But these things are not in our hands so there is no point thinking about it.
How serious was the rift between Phillip Lahm and Ballack over the captaincy issue? Did it affect team’s preparation for the semifinal?
I don’t know what rift you are talking about. Phillip spoke his mind out and that is always a good thing. It would be unfair for me to say anything on this issue, though. One thing I can say is that it hasn’t affected the team. These issues are too petty to make any impact.
Quite a few big stars failed to shine. What’s the reason?
It is surprising actually that none of the big players have performed well. The reason should be best known to them I guess. But again, it goes to show how open a World Cup is and that nothing can be taken for granted. Playing for clubs and country are two completely different things.
What do you take back from this tournament?
A lot… Playing in a World Cup is always a great experience. You make many friends, you learn to live together as a family for one month. But the most important thing I take back is the confidence that these players are champions within themselves and will make us proud in the future tournaments.
What is your moment of the WC?
Beating Argentina 4-0 felt nice. You really don’t dream of such a scoreline when two heavyweights clash but we looked unstoppable that day. Everything seemed to go right for us. It was a tremendous achievement.
Germany will feature in the third-place play-off yet again. How frustrating is it?
At least it gives us an opportunity to show that we are not the fourth best team in the world! But it does hurt that twice we came into touching distance of the final and couldn’t manage to go through. However, Uruguay are very good and it should be an entertaining match. Both sides will play without any fear so you can expect a very free flowing encounter. We would like to go out of this World Cup on a high.
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