Only three S04 players had won the World Cup before Höwedes and Draxler: Berni Klodt (1954), Helmut Kremers and Norbert Nigbur (both 1974). None of those three featured during the final when Germany won the title though. The Royal Blues’ captain and youth product was on the pitch for the DFB Team’s 1-0 win over La Albiceleste on Sunday though, making him the first Schalke player to have featured for the winning team in a World Cup final.
Höwedes showed throughout the tournament that Germany manager Joachim Löw could count on him. The 26-year-old used his experience and defensive expertise, putting in convincing displays in what is an unfamiliar left-back position for him. He was just one of just three German players that featured in every minute of his nation’s seven World Cup matches. Höwedes received high praise for his great tournament, and from none other than Franz Beckenbauer: “The player that impressed the most was Benedikt Höwedes,” said the Kaiser. “He played in a very unfamiliar position and put in quality performances. He did his job brilliantly.”
Höwedes put in yet another fine display at left back in the final against Argentina. In fact, he almost wrote himself into the history books seconds before half time. However, his header from Toni Kroos’ corner crashed against the post. Höwedes will no doubt have gotten over it now though, as Mario Götze’s goal in extra time meant Germany lifted the World Cup for the fourth time. The S04 defender could barely put his joy into words after the final whistle. “What a fantastic moment. We will never forget this day,” said the World Cup winner.
The general consensus was that it was a fully deserved World Cup title for the Germany team, who improved with each game, particularly during the knockout phase.
“The best team won the World Cup,” said Germany’s general manager Oliver Bierhoff. The head coach shared his opinion: “If anyone deserves the crown, then it’s this team. There was only won deserved winner and it was this group of players. They showed unbelievable team spirit and developed incredible willpower over the last days,” said a delighted Löw. “This deep feeling of happiness will last for eternity. We’re all immensely proud.”
The team also showed that they don’t just play great football, but they also know how to fittingly celebrate such huge achievements. Right after the final whistle, the party started in Rio. Players, staff, friends and family flooded the pitch, before a specially arranged after-party allowed the players to let their hair down and enjoy the moment. Even pop star Rihanna was amongst those that showed up at the party to congratulate the team. The celebrations will continue on Tuesday when the team will fly back to Germany and will be welcomed by the fans at the Brandenburg Gate in Berlin. The fan party will also be the final stop on the DFB Team’s World Cup journey, meaning Höwedes and Draxler will then have a well-deserved holiday before returning to Schalke at the start of August.
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