Addressing an audience is not a new experience to Wolfgang Niersbach. The reigning President of the German FA has held speeches at almost all occasions one could imagine. He’s a master of the tongue-in-cheek style, but also can be strictly factual, but never can be blamed for being boring or bland. He speaks when he has something to say. He spoke in front of millions and just a few listeners, with and without a microphone.
But Sunday night, around 1 A.M. and minutes before the plane took off Wolfgang Niersbach did something completely new – he delivered a speech aboard an airplane. Just hours ago, the German team had defeated Denmark 2:1, thus qualifying for the QUARTER-FINALS at EURO 2012. No tournament team had registered three wins in the group stage, while Germany won ITS 13th qualifying or tournament game in a row, dating back to the South Africa World Cup.
For that extraordinary achievement, the President wanted to say "thanks". "Your team spirit is phenomenal", said Niersbach. "Just keep on going like this. This is an amazing team, and all of Germany supports you. Your achievement is incredible, and nobody should take this for granted."
But Niersbach’s praise was not limited to the players. "Jogi, you never complained about the difficulties during our preparations for the tournament. Without hesitating or lamenting, you and your coaching staff and Oliver Bierhoff just did your job. That showed so much class."
Nearly all seats were filled on the charter plane, as the DFB Presidential Board had travelled to Poland to support the team in the decisive match of the group stage. Niersbach went on to talk about Lars Bender, who had not only excelled as right defensive back in his first game at a major tournament, but also scored the game clincher. Bender’s goal sealed the German qualification for the quarterfinal next Friday against Greece.
"Lars, we all have the most respect for what you did tonight. You started your dribbling at our penalty box, then you sprinted full pace across the field to catch a brilliant pass by Mesut Özil. You were there when it counted." Niersbach also honoured Lukas Podolski, who had played his 100th international at the age of 27. "He’s a great and he’s a fun guy, and most importantly, a brilliant football player."
