Germany shocked the world when they were knocked out of the 2018 FIFA World Cup on Wednesday, following their 2-0 defeat to Korea Republic. Captain Manuel Neuer has now commented on their surprise exit.
The curse of the champions has struck again, with Germany having become the fourth nation in the last five World Cups to be knocked out of the tournament at the group stage four years after lifting the trophy.
After picking up just three points from their three matches in Group F, Neuer believes that Die Mannschaft simply did not deserve to qualify for the round of 16.
“We had it in our own hands, but we did not make it,” he said, according to SportsOn.
“To revel in the past brings us nothing, that’s bitter and pathetic. Even if it had worked today, there would have been halts in the knockout phase.
“We just did not deserve it. We did not really convince in any game.
“Of course, it is very disappointing. We need to analyse this and it has to be said, very clearly, that we just do not deserve it. Even after the three games, you have not seen in any game that there was a German team on the pitch, in front of which one has fear or respect.
“Even if we had made it in the last 16, everyone would have liked to play against us. How should we be dangerous to an opponent if we deliver such performances?
“I’ve always tried to take responsibility, always tried to take the team. In the locker room, during training and on the pitch. Of course, I am also responsible for it.”
