German forward Thomas Muller claims that “play-acting” and a “weak referee” played a part in the world champions’ shock Euro 2016 qualifying defeat against The Republic of Ireland.
Germany missed a chance to seal their place in next summer’s tournament as Shane Long’s 70th-minute strike saw the home team win Thursday’s Group D clash 1-0 in Dublin. They had 16 attempts at goal and dominated the possession but were unable to beat a stubborn Irish defence. Germany didn’t have a shot on target until Jerome Boateng’s long-range strike in the 81st minute.
Muller squandered a glorious opportunity to equalise when he fired wide from inside the box late on, meaning two teams from Germany, Poland and the Republic of Ireland can all still qualify automatically on Sunday.
The Germans still lead the group, but they require at least a point from their final match at home to Georgia to ensure they book their place at Euro 2016.
Ireland boss Martin O’Neil joked that his side should be handed the trophy after picking up four points from six against the 2014 World Cup winners.
In contrast, infuriated Germany manager Joachim Low complained that the Irish had scored from their “100th long ball,” while Muller also gave little credit to the victors.
“Ireland only defended and played long balls,” the Bayern attacker told reporters. We had decent chances and gave nothing away.
“In the end we wasted too many chances and conceded an unnecessary goal after a mistake, coupled with a lot of play-acting and a week referee.
“Even if it sounds stupid, we didn’t play badly.”