ABU DHABI // There is no denying that the German football team and success at the World Cup go hand in hand. But this tournament promises to be one of the national side’s toughest tests yet.
Die Adler’s first challenge is against Portugal on Monday, and Germans in the UAE will be hoping the spirit of their country’s three previous World Cup titles will inspire their team to reach another final.
However, like all football fans, any pre-tournament predictions are tempered with a healthy does of scepticism.
“I think we will be disappointed if we don’t get to the semis,” said Hendrik Mueller-Schulenburg, 38, who works in corporate sales. “I don’t think we will make it all the way though because a lot of players are injured and not on top form – but you never know, they are a tournament team and they will certainly be a contender.
Mr Mueller-Schulenburg said the first match will be a tough test.
“It is the strongest match in the group against Portugal and if you want to go to the semis you need to beat then. People say it is an easy group – but I think the African teams are unpredictable and you can’t underestimate them.
“The USA has our former coach as well so they will know how we play. It is a group that we have to win, full stop – it is a dangerous group, definitely.”
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Mr Mueller-Schulenburg used to work in football in the UAE and was marketing manager for the Fifa Under 17 World Cup last year. He has lived in the country for more than five years and said it is a unique experience watching the big games here.
“You don’t have all the public watching or open air viewing that you do in Germany - that doesn’t really happen, but I do like it. I always look forward to watching it from the UAE. Everyone makes an effort and its fun to meet up with our international friends and have good banter.
“In Germany, everything stops for the World Cup or the Euros – people are out in the street and put German flags on their cars, that sort of thing. I always like to stay in and watch the games with my friends though – I tend to get pretty loud so it’s maybe for the best,” he joked.
“In my opinion – they want to be No. 1 – but they have no chance this year. If they reach the semi-finals that is already a good result,” said Klaus Korzeng, 60, who has lived in Dubai for eight years.
“They lost against Spain in the last World Cup, who went on to win the tournament, so that was a good sign – so I would expect something similar this year.
“Everyone takes a big interest and of course we will watch every German game - but also the other matches. I am interested in the Brazilian team this year. I think the top candidate is Spain. Its looks to me like Spanish sides are all doing well at the moment and they look very strong.
“I will just be watching the games at home with a friend – this is a tradition we have. Every World Cup we get together to watch the matches. I believe there are Germans who gather across the UAE to watch the matches, but I just stay at home, I like this more,” he said.
ksinclair@thenational.ae
