Lukas Podolski brought down the curtain on his international career in style on Wednesday, banging in the winning goal with his trusty left boot as Germany beat England 1-0 in Dortmund.
Podolski captained the world champions to their first win over old rivals England on home soil since 1987, and it was only fitting that he netted the winning goal- his 49th for Germany – on his final appearance.
“It was like in a movie,” he beamed afterwards. “Dear God gave me a strong left foot and I used it tonight.”
“It was a great game, a great result and a great way to say goodbye.”
The 31-year-old received a standing ovation in Dortmund after a pre-match presentation to mark his 13-year international career, and new-look England took over proceedings from there, dominating the game in the early stages with Adam Lallana hitting the post after 30 minutes.
Podolski blazed over the bar after being set up by Manchester City’s Leroy Sane, while Dele Alli forced Germany goalie Marc Andre ter-Stegen into a save just before the break.
The hosts improved at the restart with half chances for Julian Brandt and Podolski, though Eric Dier forced another fine save from ter-Stegen.
But Podolski settled the tie with the superb winner on 69 minutes, blasting in from 25 metres out to leave Joe Hart stranded in England goal after he was set up by Andre Schuerrle. The former Cologne and Arsenal forward, who joins Japan’s Vissel Kobe next season came off to thunderous applause six minutes to the end.
Germany could have doubled their lead after a brilliant run from Sane, who also missed another sitter in the dying stages of the game.
