• World Cup

Beckenbauer again attacks 'stupid and tired' England

ESPN staff
June 24, 2010
Franz Beckenbauer has again blasted England © Getty Images
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Franz Beckenbauer has launched another attack on England, branding them "stupid" for letting themselves fall into a World Cup second-round clash against Germany.

Fabio Capello's men were pushed into runner-up spot in Group C after USA sealed a late win over Algeria, forcing them into a last-16 showdown against their familiar foe.

"A game like this should be a semi-final," Beckenbauer told Bild. "Stupidly, the English have slipped up a little by finishing second in their group."

Beckenbauer had previously accused England of playing "kick and rush" football after they toiled to a 1-1 draw in their opening game of the tournament against USA - a "paltry" performance that, alongside the 0-0 draw with Algeria in the subsequent match, he insists leaves the Germans with nothing to fear.

"England's first two appearances at the World Cup were paltry, but they improved against Slovenia [a 1-0 win]," he said. "Of course we respect them, but we certainly don't fear them."

He extended the attack by highlighting a "tiredness" that he has perceived in England's players, who have just completed a demanding Premier League season. "The English look a little tired," he said. "There is a good reason for that: the Premier League players have got to play far more games than their Bundesliga colleagues, including two national cup competitions.

"Therefore, when it comes to a World Cup or a European Championships, they are burnt out. Our players, on the other hand, seem to be in a physically better condition."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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