On Thursday, Germany's much-touted U17 team will not only attempt to reach the quarterfinals of the World Cup in Chile, they will also try to salvage a year that held great promise for the German game but has so far been rather disappointing.
The U17 World Cup is the fifth major tournament at junior level this year. For the first time ever, Germany was represented at every single one -- and were usually among the favourites to win. But as of yet, none of the teams managed to claim a title.
In May, Germany's U17s reached the final of the European Championships. Although their opponent France were very strong, the final result, a 4-1 defeat, came as a letdown.
"We're still proud of the team, although some didn't play to their best level,"coach Christian Wuck said.
Later that month, the U20 World Cup began in New Zealand. Many tipped Germany, coached by Frank Wormuth, to go all the way, although the side's stated aim was the semifinal. The team scored 16 goals in their three group games and then knocked out Nigeria to reach the quarterfinals against Mali on June 14. Leverkusen's Julian Brandt put his side ahead in the first half, and on 56 minutes, Germany were awarded a penalty.
But midfielder Hany Mukhtar, then on Benfica's books, missed from the spot and Germany went on to lose the game on penalties. "We can go home with our heads held high," Wormuth said.
"I'm proud of my team, which played very well at this tournament. The key moment was the penalty we wasted."
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