Andreas Brehme, who scored the winning goal for West Germany in the final of the 1990 World Cup, has passed away aged 63. The left-back scored the all-important penalty in Rome as Franz Beckenbauer led his side to victory over Argentina.
Brehme made 86 appearances for Germany during his career, enjoying successful spells at Bayern Munich and Inter Milan at club level. He also won the Bundesliga with FC Kaiserslautern, having helped them to promotion to the German top-flight just two seasons prior.
According to Bild, Brehme died on Monday night in Munich after suffering a cardiac arrest. He was admitted to the emergency clinic in Ziemssenstrasse, near his apartment, but staff were unable to save the legendary defender.
Brehme’s passing was then confirmed to the German Press Association by his partner Susanne Schaefer on Tuesday morning.
Plenty of tributes have poured in for Brehme since the news of his passing broke, with many recognising that he was one of the first to revolutionise the full-back position due to his desire to roam forward and be an attacking threat – as shown by his 65 goals in 509 appearances at club level.
Former Norwegian international Jan Aage Fjortoft wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter: “Terrible News!!! Andreas Brehme has died. The matchwinner of the World Cup Final 1990 died due to a cardiac arrest. Had the privilege to play against him when he, Matthäus and Klinsmann played for Inter. He will be deeply missed and be remembered as one of the best RIP.”
Bayern Munich also paid tribute to their former star, writing: “FC Bayern are extremely saddened by the sudden passing of Andreas Brehme. We extend our deepest sympathies to his family and friends. Andreas Brehme will forever be in our hearts, as a World Cup winner and, more importantly, as a very special person. He will forever be part of the FC Bayern family. Rest in peace, Andi!”