Knitwear will continue Germany’s run
Don’t expect any touchline fashion statements from Germany coach Joachim Loew for tomorrow’s semi-final against Spain – he is under pressure to stick with the blue v-neck that has served him well so far at the World Cup.
He said: “I’m not driven by superstition but the coaching staff want me to wear the blue sweater because we always score four goals when I do. It is becoming almost a running gag. People keep going on about it.
“I’m not even allowed to wash it now even though I’ve worn it several times. I think I will wear it again against Spain.”
And assistant Hansi Flick will also be sticking with the duo’s smart casual dugout uniform, like a younger brother whose mum insists on dressing in the same clothes as an older sibling.
Even one of Germany’s stand-out players is aware of the significance of the blue sweater.
Bastian Schweinsteiger said: “I don’t know how many sweaters he has that are blue – but I hope he has one or two left in his suitcase!”
If we are honest, we rather liked the cardigan ensemble from the opening match against Australia.