Havertz issues apology after World Cup exit as Spanish press thank ace

We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you’ve consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. More info

Germany forward Kai Havertz has apologised to his country’s fans following their early exit from the World Cup. The Chelsea star bagged a brace in the 4-2 win over Costa Rica but it wasn’t enough to send Hansi Flick’s side through to the round of 16.

Germany knew victory over Costa Rica and Japan failing to beat Spain would be enough for them to qualify. But Japan upset the odds by beating Spain 2-1 thanks to two goals in the space of three second-half minutes.

Costa Rica led 2-1 at one point and, for a few minutes at least, it appeared as if both Germany and Spain were heading out. But Havertz’s brace turned the game on its head to help Spain finish second in the group.

Spanish media have thanked Havertz for playing his role in their qualification. Marca used the headline: “Gracias Alemania! Danke Havertz!” on the homepage of their website, translating to “Thank you Germany! Thank you Havertz!”

Andy Dunn on Costa Rica v Germany

But Havertz was understandably not as happy when speaking to the media after the game. The 23-year-old was named player of the match but was apologetic to his country’s fans.

He said: “We are sorry to have to again disappoint them at a World Cup. Our fans have been dreaming of this for years and we have been dreaming of playing with the support of our fans.

“Now we’ve disappointed them again. We apologise and hope to do better next time.”

Germany ultimately were made to pay for their opening loss to Japan in Qatar. Japan’s second goal against Spain, which ended up sending Germany out, was controversial as replays were inconclusive as to whether the ball had gone out of play before Ao Tanaka scored.

DON’T MISS
Man Utd may finally have world class leader back in brilliant news for Ten Hag
Spain vs Japan conspiracy theory raised with Germany out of World Cup
Arsenal’s exciting XI after January with Mudryk and three more signings

But Flick was only interested in discussing his side’s performance. He said: “I don’t care about different teams, it is all up to us. If you look at the matches and number of goals, it is our fault.

“I am convinced we had sufficient chances and possibilities against Japan in the first half and also against Spain, you have to use your chances. It would have been a different situation.

“There were a lot of individual mistakes and they made me very angry. The first half made me very upset and I told the team I was upset.”

Spain will face Morocco in the round of 16 on Tuesday, while Japan play Croatia a day earlier. Spain have inadvertently avoided a potential clash with Brazil at the quarter-final stage, meaning Japan or Croatia could now face the tournament favourites.

Want the latest Premier League news as we publish it on Express Sport? Join our new Facebook group by clicking here

Think you can predict the World Cup Golden Boot Winner? If so you could WIN £150 in Nike vouchers! CLICK HERE

Source: Read Full Article