Toni Kroos Returns, Florian Wirtz Sets Panzer Team's Fastest Goal Record

Jakarta, Beritasatu.com – The friendly match between hosts France and Germany on Saturday (23/3/2024) evening local time or Sunday (24/3/2024) early morning WIB marked the return of senior player, Toni Kroos. The German national team won 2-0 in a match which was also marked by Florian Wirtz's quick goal.

Kroos, who was recalled after declaring his retirement from the German national team, was prepared to welcome Euro 2024 which took place in Germany.

In the match which took place at the Stadio Groupama, the visiting team immediately took the lead when the match had only lasted seven seconds. Receiving a measured pass from Kroos, Wirtz fired a shot from outside the penalty box and scored a goal.

The German football federation (DFB) confirmed it was the fastest goal ever scored in a national team match. The previous record was held by Lukas Podolski who scored nine seconds into the win over Ecuador in 2013.

Kai Havertz made the score 2-0 for Team Panzer, nicknamed the German national team, after the first half break. Antonio Ruediger made a vital save on the goal line near the end of the match, giving Germany a win over France.

“We always hope and try to generate a little euphoria. I think we succeeded with matches like that,” said German Sports Director Rudi Voeller.

France, on the other hand, were greeted with jeering whistles from the home fans as the game ended. This was Germany's second win in a row over France, but it was also Germany's third win in the last 11 matches.

“This is an important step forward. It is important for us in welcoming the European championship (Euro 2024) to build a little confidence,” said Toni Kroos after the match.

Kroos' return is just one of several team changes made by Nagelsmann in preparations before the tournament. The former Bayern Munich coach also brought Maximilian Mittelstaedt from Stuttgart who appeared as a debutant left back.

Bayer Leverkusen's Robert Andrich also put in a fine performance in his second game for Germany. Stuttgart's Deniz Undav and Waldemar Anton also made their debut as substitutes.