Lukas Podolski (Part 3)

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9 Apr 2024

Lukas Podolski (Part 3)

Lukas Podolski's early career trajectory sparked interest from both Polish and German national teams. In late 2003, after a series of standout performances in the Bundesliga, Polish media advocated for Podolski's inclusion in the Poland national team. However, then-Poland coach Paweł Janas dismissed these suggestions, citing the presence of superior strikers in the team and Podolski's lack of consistent playing time at his club.
Meanwhile, as Podolski's performances continued to impress, German media began to emphasize his potential inclusion in the Germany national team. Despite initial interest in representing Poland, Podolski eventually chose to play for Germany. His decision was influenced by the increasing recognition of his talent in Germany and his desire to compete at the highest level internationally.

Podolski's breakthrough came during a challenging period for his club, 1. FC Köln, which was relegated at the end of the season. Despite this setback, Podolski's performances caught the attention of Germany national team coach Rudi Völler, who handed him his debut on 6 June 2004 in a match against Hungary. At just 19 years old, Podolski became the first second-division player since 1975 to earn a call-up to the Germany national team, marking the beginning of his successful international career. Lukas Podolski's international career was marked by several memorable performances and achievements, showcasing his goal-scoring prowess and versatility on the field.

In a UEFA Euro 2008 qualifying match against San Marino, Podolski notably scored four goals in Germany's dominant 13–0 victory, becoming one of only four German players to achieve this feat in an international match. His ability to find the back of the net consistently was further demonstrated in other matches, such as the Euro qualifier against Cyprus in 2007, where he played out of his natural position but still contributed significantly to Germany's 4–0 win, scoring a goal and being named Man of the Match.
During the Euro 2008 tournament, Podolski made a significant impact for the German national team. In a group stage match against Poland, his country of birth, Podolski scored both goals in a 2–0 victory, showing respect by refraining from celebrating. He continued his scoring streak in the tournament, netting another goal against Croatia, although Germany suffered a 2–1 defeat. Despite this setback, Podolski played a crucial role in setting up Bastian Schweinsteiger's goal in the quarterfinal against Portugal.

Throughout his international career, Podolski showcased his adaptability by transitioning from his traditional striker role to an attacking left midfield position. Despite Germany's loss to Spain in the Euro 2008 final, Podolski's contributions earned him recognition, and he was named one of the players of the tournament along with his teammates Michael Ballack and Philipp Lahm.
Lukas Podolski continued to demonstrate his goal-scoring abilities and contributions to the German national team during the 2010 FIFA World Cup qualification campaign and the tournament itself.
In Germany's first 2010 World Cup qualifier against Liechtenstein, Podolski made an impactful start by scoring the opening two goals in a convincing 6–0 victory. He further showcased his scoring prowess by netting the opener in the 2–1 home win over Russia, displaying his ability to create space and unleash powerful shots.

During the World Cup tournament in South Africa, Podolski, who had adapted to his role as a winger, scored the first goal in Germany's opening game against Australia, contributing to a 4–0 win. In the following match against Serbia, he missed a penalty but had several opportunities to score despite Germany playing with 10 men for much of the game. Despite the setback, Podolski rebounded by scoring against England in the round of 16, helping Germany secure a 4–1 victory.
Podolski's impact extended to the quarter-final match against Argentina, where he provided the assist for Miroslav Klose's goal, contributing to a commanding 4–0 win for Germany. His performances throughout the tournament showcased his versatility, goal-scoring ability, and importance to the German team's success on the international stage.

Lukas Podolski played a crucial role for Germany during the qualification campaign for Euro 2012, contributing both as a scorer and a provider. He provided assists for three goals and scored three times himself, helping Germany secure victories in all ten matches of their qualification campaign.
At Euro 2012, Podolski continued to be a key figure for the German national team. He started all three of Germany's Group B matches, marking his 100th appearance for the national team in the third game. In that milestone match, he also found the back of the net, showcasing his enduring impact and contribution to the team's success.

However, Germany's journey in Euro 2012 came to an end in the semi-finals against Italy, where they faced a 2-1 defeat. Despite the disappointment of the loss, Podolski's presence and contributions throughout the tournament highlighted his importance to the team and his significance as a seasoned international player for Germany.
Lukas Podolski played a role in Germany's successful 2014 World Cup campaign in Brazil. Before the tournament, he featured in five qualification matches to help secure Germany's spot in the finals.
During the World Cup finals in Brazil, Podolski made appearances in the victories over the USA and Portugal in the group stages. However, he did not play the full 90 minutes in these matches. Despite not being a constant starter, Podolski contributed to the team's success as Germany went on to win the tournament and secure the World Cup title.

Lukas Podolski was included in the squad for UEFA Euro 2016. During the tournament, he made a substitute appearance against Slovakia.
After the conclusion of Euro 2016, on 15 August, Podolski announced his retirement from international football, effective 23 March 2017. He expressed his desire to shift his focus and spend more time with his family.
Podolski's final international appearance for Germany came on 22 March 2017, in a match against England, where he scored the winning goal.
Lukas Podolski is known for possessing an explosive and accurate shot, with his strikes reaching speeds of nearly 100 mph (160 km/h). Arsene Wenger, former Arsenal manager, described Podolski as "one of the best finishers" he has ever seen, highlighting his proficiency in front of goal.

In his early career, Podolski demonstrated explosive speed and great acceleration, although injuries later affected this aspect of his game. He often cuts inside to either shoot or pass the ball. Physically strong, Podolski is capable of holding up the ball and delivering key passes to his teammates.
Podolski also possesses good dribbling and technical skills, along with being a proficient crosser of the ball, particularly from the left side of the pitch. He has a reputation as a penalty specialist, having missed only two penalties throughout his career.