A new decade saw a new-look German side, a side whose youth and inexperience was matched with a new-found enthusiasm and steel. Arguably the surprise of the World Cup finals, Jogi Löw’s Jungs were finally stopped by eventual winners Spain – but not before thrilling both supporters and neutrals alike with some thrilling football and a hatful of goals.
The same could not be said for England, who once again found themselves unable to get out of first gear in dealing with opposition teams that could best be described as ordinary.
However Germany versus England is Germany versus England – and both teams were clearly relishing the challenge. The game will forever be remembered for England’s “lost” goal, but the stark reality was they they were destroyed by a German side that was fitter, faster and fuelled with youthful desire. Germany romped to a 4-1 win, and it could have been a lot more.
The latest encounter between the two sides would take place at Wembley in November 2013 – which Germany would extend their unbeaten record at England’s home ground to six matches, with their last defeat coming in 1975. Fielding what would be described by many as a second or even third eleven, Joachim Löw’s side would win 1-0, the goal scored by stand-in skipper Per Mertesacker.
Matches
Bloemfontein 2010, FIFA World Cup Second Phase
Wembley 2013, Friendly International