The German national team surprisingly lost their opening game at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar against Japan. TV expert Dietmar Hamann then expressed clear criticism of the DFB team and took on defender Antonio Rüdiger.
The reason for this was a scene during the 2-1 defeat against the Asian World Cup participant. When the score was 1-0 for Germany, Rüdiger had raised his knees provocatively in a running duel against Takuma Asano. This action was too much for Hamann.
“That was symptomatic of the unprofessionalism and arrogance in the German game and the disrespect that couldn’t be surpassed because he made the opponent look ridiculous,” the ex-national player chose in his “sky“-Column clear words.
“Rüdiger laughed afterwards, but I think only the Japanese laugh tonight,” explained the 49-year-old.
Overall, Hamann was tough on the DFB team. “The defeat was deserved because the Japanese had some huge chances in the second half. I had the feeling that the Japanese were fitter than the Germans over the whole game,” said the TV expert.
Football World Cup: Gloomy prognosis for the DFB team
Hamann made a gloomy prognosis for the team of national coach Hansi Flick. “I expect Japan to win against Costa Rica on Sunday. A draw against Spain probably won’t be enough,” explained the Liverpool legend. “You probably have to win, but I don’t see that. I did before the World Cup once I said, I wouldn’t be surprised if we’re back home on the 1st of Advent, and I think it’s very likely that that will happen.”
“A player like Hummels should have belonged in the team because he takes responsibility, because he addresses grievances, because he recognizes tendencies and developments,” said Hamann.