World Cup - Eilts: "Whoever beats England can win the title"

This is how fans know Dieter Eilts: The honorary captain in action, here against Nurnberg
First Team
Saturday, 26.06.2010 / 07:00

Werder’s honorary captain Dieter Eilts earned 31 caps for Germany and beat Germany’s upcoming Round of 16 opponent England in 1996. The 46-year-old spoke to WERDER.DE about the performance...

Werder’s honorary captain Dieter Eilts earned 31 caps for Germany and beat Germany’s upcoming Round of 16 opponent England in 1996. The 46-year-old spoke to WERDER.DE about the performance of Werder’s internationals at the 2010 World Cup and the chances of the German national team.

 

Dieter Eilts, what are your thoughts thus far on the German team with Werder stars Mesut Özil, Marko Marin, Tim Wiese and Per Mertesacker ?

Thus far the performances have been varied. There have been fantastic moments, for example against Australia. But there have been less good matches like against Serbia and at times also against Ghana, which cannot have pleased those in charge and the players. The team can certainly still improve, especially in defence and in conversion of chances.

 

How do you rate the performance of Werder’s internationals?

I cannot really say much about Marko Marin since he has only been subbed in. Per Mertesacker has not fully played up to his potential. He has shown some uncertainties which you are not accustomed to with him. But I am convinced that he will find his way back to his usual level from Werder. Mesut Özil has made the best impression. He was outstanding against Australia and repeatedly showed he is dangerous in front of goal – not only scoring himself but making the decisive passes as well. Despite his dream goal against Ghana, you must remember that he is still young and consistency will automatically be lacking sometimes.

 

What do you expect from the upcoming opponents from England?

The English are generally very physical and will give everything they have until the final minute on Sunday. They have a lot of good individual players who can score. I especially think of Wayne Rooney. Even though he has not really played well yet, you always have to watch him. And I think our agile and variable attack will give the English defence some problems.

 

How will the game on Sunday end?

I don’t really like to guess. But there is clearly a chance for a German victory. But I definitely think the game will be even.

 

If the German team beats England on Sunday, what can they do in this tournament?

If you beat England, then the title is definitely possible for sure. Even though it’s evident that a drastic improvement would be necessary for that.

 

 

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