Despite their “bitter” exit from the Euro 2024 quarterfinal match, With his retirement, Toni Kroos gave his team optimism for the future following Germany’s 2-1 overtime loss to Spain.
Germany’s 2-1 quarterfinal loss to Spain in extra time on Friday, retiring midfielder Toni Kroos expressed optimism for the team’s future despite their “bitter” Euro 2024 exit. At the Euros, Toni Kroos retirement Kroos exits the stage after making a comeback to revive Germany’s international football prestige.comeback from retirement to play for Germany. After nearly ten years of underwhelming results in major tournaments, the home team impressed thanks in large part to his performance. He had previously declared that following the competition, he would give up all football. Spain took the lead after a goalless first half thanks to a strike from 16-year-old winger Lammin Yamal, which was finished by Dani Olmo.
Florian Wirtz’s equalization in the 89th minute gave Germany a response and forced extra time.
In the 119th minute, Mikel Merino of Spain headed in the winning goal after Germany’s penalty appeal for a handball was denied.
“We threw everything in, to lose when we were so close, is bitter,” Kroos told ARD.
“Right now, the elimination is more important than his retirement because we couldn’t accomplish our goal and our dream is now over.
We had a good tournament, but it hurts to lose so close to the finish line.
The 34-year-old stated that German football had a bright future and that the team had given supporters and fans hope again.
“What we accomplished makes us all worthy of pride. I was glad to assist; I believe we restored hope to German football and improved over time.
“I think the team will do it in future, but today we’re extremely sad because we would have liked to stay a little longer.”
The retiring veteran Kroos was praised by his coach Julian Nagelsmann of Germany, who played a key role in persuading him to come out of international retirement in time for the Euros.
“One cannot overestimate the significance of Tony’s career. He has been Germany’s standout player. He’s a major player for Germany,” the 36-year-old remarked.
After the defeat, Nagelsmann claimed Kroos told the players in the locker room, “he will always see himself as part of this group.”
“His achievements are well known, but not everyone is familiar with his personality. He addressed the group during a very trying time in his own life.”
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