Germany football icon Karl-Heinz Schnellinger, who scored in the ‘Game of the Century’ and was nicknamed ‘The Volkswagen’, dies aged 85
- The former West German defender died in Milan on Monday
- Schnellinger spent nine years at AC Milan and played in four World Cups
- IAN LADYMAN: The Premier League title race was on the rocks, it’s not boring compared to other European leagues! – Listen to the It all starts! podcast
German football legend Karl-Heinz Schnellinger has sadly passed away at the age of 85 after a long battle with illness.
The former defender, who played four World Cups for West Germany, died on Monday at San Raffaele Hospital in Milan.
Schnellinger became known as ‘The Volkswagen’ during his playing days and spent most of his career with AC Milan, where he made 47 appearances for his country.
He is best remembered for his 1966 and 1970 World Cups, where he played a major role in the runs to the final and semi-final.
Schnellinger started for West Germany when they suffered defeat to England in the final at Wembley in 1966.
German football legend Karl-Heinz Schnellinger has unfortunately passed away at the age of 85
His highlight would come four years later, when his national team played Italy in the last four in what was dubbed ‘The Game of the Century’.
West Germany trailed 1–0 and were growing desperate as the match entered stoppage time, but Schnellinger pounced to score his only international goal and take the tie to extra time.
German TV commentator Ernst Huberty is remembered for shouting: ‘Schnellinger! Ausgerechnet Schnellinger, which roughly translates to Schnellinger of all people.
Another five goals would follow in the 30 minutes that followed, with Italy ultimately claiming an unforgettable 4–3 victory.
The former defender, who participated in four World Cups, died in Milan on Monday