Germany’s World Cup-winning head coach Joachim Löw was assistant to USA counterpart Jürgen Klinsmann when the former Tottenham Hotspur and Bayern Munich striker coached his native country.
Lasting from 2004 until 2006, Klinsmann was replaced by Löw after declining to renew his contract following a semi-final departure from the 2006 World Cup. Klinsmann then coached former club Bayern for an incomplete 2008/09 season before coaching the USA in 2011, a role he has occupied since.
Considering Klinsmann’s prior coaching disappointments, it was of no surprise to see him celebrate a 2-1 victory over his fellow countrymen amid yesterday’s matches (Wednesday 10 June).
Despite fielding a competitive starting X1, with World Cup stars Bastian Schweinsteiger, Mario Götze, and Mesut Özil all starting the game, Germany were erratic throughout the game. A 12th-minute goal from Götze was only followed by American goals coming after 41 minutes and 88 minutes.