FIFA WC: 'Handling your nerves is the key in a World Cup final,' says Klinsmann
New York, July 19
Former Germany striker and World Cup winner Jurgen Klinsmann believes handling emotions and staying true to a team's identity will be the key when Argentina and Spain battle for football's biggest prize in the FIFA World Cup final on Monday.
Defending champions Argentina take on Spain at the New York New Jersey Stadium, with Lionel Messi's side aiming to retain the title while the Spaniards chase their second World Cup crown after an outstanding campaign.
Klinsmann, who won the 1990 FIFA World Cup with West Germany after defeating Argentina in the final, said playing in football's showpiece match is an experience unlike any other.
"It's a uniqueness of that game because everyone involved in a World Cup final understands it might only happen once in your lifetime. The magnitude is enormous; it's what everyone dreams about. Every player, coach, staff member and fan dreams about their country being in a World Cup final at one point in their life," Klinsmann told FIFA.
The former Germany international, who featured in three World Cups as a player and later coached at the tournament, said the biggest challenge on final day is mental rather than physical.
"You are prepared for it, you played the whole tournament, you are in a good run and in a positive moment because both teams who end up in a World Cup final are there for a reason. It's about finishing it off for your team, so it's about handling your nerves and staying balanced and staying calm and enjoying it to a certain extent. But all that is easier said than done," he said.
Klinsmann also advised players not to get overwhelmed by the occasion and instead focus on executing their roles.
"If it's possible, you have to stick to your game plan and your job that you need to get done for your team... and stay grounded and balanced. There is a lot that goes into it, and usually the quality comes through most likely," he added.
Reflecting on his own triumph with West Germany in Italy in 1990, Klinsmann said the true significance of lifting the World Cup becomes clearer only with time.
"It is something you don't realise when you do it... then it's party time, and you party for days and nights. It's something that comes to you after your career; it makes it more understandable when you stop playing because you do other jobs and things and you will always be remembered for that World Cup final with the people who saw it.
"Even football fans from other countries around the world will remind you where they were and what they did in that specific moment in time. It is something that will always stay with you, and that is the amazing thing about winning a World Cup. It changes your life, no matter what," he concluded.
— IANS
Reader Comments
As an American, I've adopted soccer late but I love this. Klinsmann knows his stuff - he's been there and done it. The way he talks about the final being a once-in-a-lifetime moment for most players really hits home. I'm rooting for Spain, their tiki-taka is beautiful.
People in India don't follow football as much as cricket, but World Cup finals are a different beast. Every chai tapri in Delhi will be glued to the TV. Klinsmann's point about staying calm under pressure - that's universal. Whether it's a penalty shootout or a run chase, mental strength wins titles. Respect both teams for reaching this stage.
Klinsmann's advice is practical but a bit generic, no? 'Handle your nerves' - easier said than done when 1.4 billion people are watching! 😅 Argentina's defense has been shaky, Spain's midfield is brilliant, but Messi magic could decide it. My heart says Argentina, my head says Spain 2-1.
I love how Klinsmann humanizes the experience. It's not just about tactics or skill - it's about being able to perform when everything is on the line. That's what makes sports so compelling. As someone who grew up in California, I've always admired how the World Cup brings the whole world together. Vamos Argentina!
Klinsmann speaks from experience - he won it in 1990! But let's not forget, Spain dismantled opponents in this tournament. Argentina has been grinding out results. I think the final will be decided by which team can
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