The intuitive striker that he was, Jurgen Klinsmann had this uncanny knack of being in the right place and at the right moment. Of course, he was never one who could conquer single-handedly but still added value to Germany in three successive World Cups – 1990, 1994 and 1998 as its key striker, jumping high in the air to head home or plant the ball on the rival net with his powerful right foot.
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Italia '90 was his crowning moment at the game’s biggest stage and Klinsmann played a major role in Germany’s triumphant run in the tournament. He will be always remembered for the tenacity he dished out against the Netherlands in the round of 16, putting up a great display after fellow-striker Rudi Voeller was red carded in the 23rd minute, leaving him lonely up front.
However, the lanky Klinsmann remained nonchalant and constantly put fear on the Dutch defence through the remaining period of time and scoring the opening goal in an eventual 2-0 win. Though he did not score in the final against Argentina which was decided by a lone goal, Klinsmann nevertheless was in the headlines as it was a foul against him which saw Pedro Monzon become the first player to be sent off in a World Cup final encounter.
At the club level, Klinsmann had started with Vfb Stuttgart before moving to Inter Milan and AS Monaco, appearing in over 500 matches. He was appointed manager of the German side in 2004 and in the 2014 edition of the World Cup, he was coach of the United States of America.
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