It was to be expected that the mood at Wembley would be hostile towards the Germans. Southgate justifies this in a controversial way.
England coach Gareth Southgate let himself be carried away to a controversial comparison in an interview with British journalists. The Three Lions coach justified the hostile atmosphere at Wembley Stadium towards German players and fans with events from World War II.
“People tried to invade us and we had the courage to fight back. You can’t hide the fact that part of the energy in the stadium against Germany came from this,” said Southgate, adding: “I’ve never had it mentioned to the players, but I know that played a role in that too. “
The 50-year-old had already made his connection to World War II clear in an earlier interview: “For me personally, my sense of identity and my values are closely linked to my family and especially to my grandfather. He was an ardent patriot and a proud military man, who served in World War II. My grandfather’s values were inoculated into me from an early age, and I couldn’t help but think of him as I stood up to sing the national anthem before my first internationals. “
England: fans and politicians demand accolade for Southgate
It remains unclear whether the comparison of the national coach was based on such experiences or was only chosen unhappily. Southgate’s standing in England is meanwhile higher than ever: According to consistent media reports, fans and some conservative politicians are demanding that the coach be knighted by the Queen in the event of a European Championship win.
The English national team defeated Germany 2-0 in the round of 16 of the 2021 European Championship at their home base at Wembley Stadium and is now in the final of the tournament. In the heated atmosphere, there was a hostile atmosphere towards the guests, for example a crying German girl was mocked on the net days later.
I have been working in the news industry for over 6 years, first as a reporter and now as an editor. I have covered politics extensively, and my work has appeared in major newspapers and online news outlets around the world. In addition to my writing, I also contribute regularly to 24 Hours World.
