Lehmann’s World Cup
Though people will always remember strikers like Klose or midfielders like Ballack, goalkeeper Lehmann should not be overlooked.
The former Borussia Dortmund custodian had to wait a long time for his moment in the sun. The 2006 FIFA World Cup was his first major tournament, following many years in the shadow of Bayern Munich’s Oliver Kahn, whom he replaced as first-choice keeper just two months before the tournament. The decision by national coach Jurgen Klinsmann was widely criticised at the time, but the doubters were soon silenced by Lehmann’s supremely confident displays.
“Everybody appreciates it when their contribution is recognised,” Lehmann said. “We all enjoy being appreciated for who we are and what we do. I consider this World Cup as the emotional highlight of my football career, because I’ve not been able to play here in Germany for three years.”