Associated Press
Frankfurt, Sept 1: Bastian Schweinsteiger captained Germany for the last time in a 2-0 friendly victory over Finland, receiving an emotional send-off to cap a 12-year international career that included the 2014 World Cup title.
Schweinsteiger burst into tears as he was honoured before kick-off and was cheered nearly every time he touched the ball. The 32-year-old midfielder decided to quit the national team after the European Championships, where Germany lost in the semifinals to France in July.
While being substituted in the 67th minute, Schweinsteiger received another standing ovation. Minutes earlier, a fan managed to run onto the pitch unchallenged and took a selfie with the smiling Schweinsteiger before running off.
“I was very touched, I was enjoying every second,” Schweinsteiger said. “It was a great honour to play for Germany and you fans.”
Germany used a largely second-string line-up and eased past a Finland team that rarely threatened. The match was played at a leisurely pace, with Germany’s goals coming in the second half. Max Meyer broke the deadlock in the 55th and substitute Mesut Ozil completed the win in the 77th.
“I didn’t think that would happen,” Schweinsteiger admitted, referring to his tears, when handed a microphone. “Thank you for coming, it means a lot to me.”
Schweinsteiger made his debut in 2004, in a 0-2 loss to Hungary, and finished with 121 caps. His teammate Lukas Podolski, whose Germany career began at the same time and who also quit after the European Championships, was at the stadium to see his friend off but did not play because of an injury. He will get his farewell match next year.
Schweinsteiger didn’t want to give up the captain’s armband and Germany were without a captain for a few minutes, until Thomas Mueller came off the bench with a spare one.
Germany play Norway in a World Cup qualifier Sunday as they begin their campaign to defend their title in Russia in 2018, but coach Joachim Loew rested most of his regulars, giving young players a chance to prove themselves.
Paulus Arajuuri nearly put Germany ahead inadvertently when his clearance attempt bounced off Finland’s post. Meyer scored after a low cross from Mario Goetze. Kevin Volland let the ball through and Meyer connected with a low shot. Ozil scored after another assist from Goetze.
