The ball is the language for Germany
One thing is for certain when Australia takes to the field at the Homeless World Cup. Regardless of the opponent they face, the match will always be played with a joyful, convivial atmosphere that more than embodies the spirit of the tournament.
This was most evident when, after Germany ran out 9-2 winners on Day 4 here in Oslo’s Rådhusplassen, both teams stayed together on the pitch to link arms in a circle and cheer and clap in unison.
For Germany coach Johan Graßhoff, this was his main takeaway from the match.
He said:
“I think the most important thing was the scenes after the match when both teams were standing together. We have some guys on the team who speak very little or no English. But the ball is the language. The players are having fun. We have a tough time because we only have five players so we only have one substitute. It’s tough but they do very well.”
As for the game itself, a German rocket into the top left corner got them off the mark before a second came from down the right flank. A fizzing shot brought their third, before a strike from the edge of the area saw them pick up their fourth of the game. Australia had chances to get themselves on the scoresheet but couldn’t find the target.
After a half-time of high fives between both sets of players the German keeper saw his first taste of the action to tip a strong Australia shot over the bar, before Germany got their fifth with a shot under the Australia keeper’s legs. After a crossfield pass found a Germany player alone to slot him his team’s sixth, Australia got off the mark via the penalty spot. A shot from a tight angle and a quick breakaway saw Germany stretch their lead to 8-1 before the Australia keeper got beaten at their near post for Germany’s ninth. As the game drew to a close, Australia scored their second with a low finish.
Regardless of the score, everyone was a winner.
Words by Craig Williams | Photos by Anita Milas