In 1990, Andreas Brehme clinched Germany’s victory in the World Cup final against Argentina by netting the decisive goal with a penalty kick, crowning them as world champions. Sadly, the footballer has passed away at the age of 63. Andreas Brehme, renowned as a footballer, coach, and member of the 1990 World Cup-winning squad, succumbed to a heart attack, as confirmed by his partner Susanne Schaefer on behalf of his family to the news agency dpa.
The Bild newspaper previously reported his demise, citing Schaefer’s statement: “It is with profound sorrow that I announce on behalf of the family the sudden and unexpected passing of my partner Andreas Brehme tonight due to a cardiac arrest. We kindly request respecting our privacy during this challenging time and refraining from inquiries.”
In his journey representing his country, Brehme, born in Hamburg in 1960, was spurred on by his father’s early encouragement. At 19, he started his career with the second division club 1. FC Saarbrücken before swiftly advancing to the first division with 1. FC Kaiserslautern after just one season. This marked the commencement of a global career that included playing for renowned clubs such as FC Bayern and Inter Milan.
RIP Andreas Brehme 🙏 pic.twitter.com/Zn3pt3wTJB
— 90s Football (@90sfootball) February 20, 2024
Brehme also had a brief stint at Real Zaragoza and secured German championship titles with both Kaiserslautern and Bayern. However, his most memorable moment arrived in 1990 when his decisive penalty kick in the final against Argentina clinched Germany’s status as world champions.
Andreas #Brehme ist tot!
— SIGGI (@SiegmundFrei) February 20, 2024
Ich kann es kaum fassen: Herzstillstand mit 63.
Hier Dir zu Ehren und Andenken Dein großer Augenblick: Elfmeter, WM-Finale 1990.
Platzierter kann man nicht schießen!
Du hast die ganze Nation glücklich gemacht.
Ruhe in Frieden!pic.twitter.com/4L6HxHP9Vo
Throughout his international career, Brehme amassed an impressive total of 86 appearances for the German national team. Reflecting on Brehme’s exceptional talent, the late Franz Beckenbauer, who served as the DFB team boss at the time, famously described him as “Andy is the most perfect footballer we have.”
Rudi Völler, Brehme’s teammate and fellow world champion, expressed profound sadness at the news of his passing, describing Andy as not only their World Cup hero but also a close friend and lifelong companion.
Völler expressed his deep admiration for Brehme’s vibrant spirit and offered heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and especially his two sons, wishing them strength during this challenging time. These sentiments were conveyed in a statement from the German Football Association, where Völler serves as sporting director.
DFB President Bernd Neuendorf reflected on Andreas Brehme’s legacy, hailing him as one of the greatest footballers in German history. Neuendorf emphasized that Brehme’s impact would be enduringly remembered, both for his prowess on the field and his personal character.
Nancy Faeser, the Federal Minister of the Interior and also responsible for sports, hailed Brehme as a “legendary figure in German football”. She stressed, “Andreas Brehme will be remembered by football fans around the world. He was an extraordinary player with remarkable achievements. His match-winning penalty in the 1990 World Cup final in Rome will forever hold a special place in history.”
After retiring from playing, Brehme ventured into coaching, although he did not attain the same level of success. He took charge of Kaiserslautern, SpVgg Unterhaching, and served as an assistant coach at VfB Stuttgart. In January, Brehme offered heartfelt words following the passing of the iconic Beckenbauer. “I believe he will unite with Pelé and Maradona in heaven,” he stated.
“As a young boy, like many others in Germany, I had a poster of Franz Beckenbauer above my bed. Later, he became my mentor, and I had the privilege of working alongside him. Over time, we developed a close friendship. I am profoundly grateful to Franz for everything.”
ALSO READ:
- Salah’s Goal Lifts Liverpool Over Brentford, Extends Lead
- Pochettino praises Gallagher as ‘key’ in Chelsea’s comeback win
- Bayern faces a challenge to their reign from Leverkusen
