This Day in History: 2023-02-07

Nr. 399

SCHÖN MAKES GERMANY GREAT (1964)

It was a happy day for East German-bom Helmut Schön when he made it across the border to the West after World War Two and began a flourishing career as a manager that ultimately led to his appointment as assistant coach to the West German national side. It was an even happier day for West Germany in November 1964 when Schön succeeded Sepp Herberger as coach. Under his guidance the national team became runners-up in the 1966 World Cup, took third place in 1970, became European Champions in 1972, World Cup winners in 1974 and European Championship runners-up in 1976.

As an East German Helmut Schön’s journey to become coach of the West German national team was even more remarkable.