Podolski stars in Germany victory to sign off in style
Lukas Podolski admitted his Germany farewell could not have been scripted better after netting the superb winner in the 1-0 friendly win over England.
It was only fitting that the Galatasaray forward should claim his 49th goal on his 130th — and final — international appearance in Wednesday’s emotional farewell. “The way it finished up was like in a film,” said Podolski, who smashed home the winning goal on 69 minutes, then came off to thunderous applause with six minutes left.
“Dear god, or someone else, gave me a strong left foot and I used it tonight. I am proud of the last 13 years,” beamed Podolski, who will join Japan’s Vissel Kobe next season.
“It was a great game, a great result and a great way to say goodbye.”
Podolski captained the world champions to their first win over old rivals England on home soil since 1987. The victory was also sweet for head coach Joachim Loew as it was a record seventh game without conceding a goal for Germany, a run starting since their Euro 2016 semifinal defeat to France.
It came with Loew missing first-choice players like goalkeeper Manuel Neuer, Jerome Boateng, Sami Khedira, Mesut Ozil, Marco Reus and Mario Gomez.
Podolski turned the friendly Germany’s way with the superb winner on 69 minutes. Andre Schuerrle laid the ball off for Podolski, whose bullet shot off his left foot gave England keeper Joe Hart no chance.