It’s one thing to criticize Germany for missing out on the World Cup, but when Qatar TV makes fun of Germany, it’s a step too far for the Qataris.
Hosts of a Qatari TV show were seen mocking Germany’s departure on Thursday. All the presenters covered their mouths and said goodbye to the Germans after their 4-2 victory against Costa Rica.
Despite the victory, Germany was left out of the tournament after finishing third in Group E. Spain and Germany, the two powerhouses in the group, completed the stage with four points. However, Spain advanced to the knockout stage thanks to a significantly better goal difference.
Qatar TV mocks Germany live on TV
Germany team photo protests bizarre setback by FIFA
The sport’s world governing body reneged on allowing OneLove bracelets just hours before games were to start. OneLove is a program that promotes diversity and inclusion. Germany, and a number of other participating countries, were less than enthusiastic about the decision.
After the gesture, the German Football Association explained the reason for the photo. “This was not about making a political statement: human rights are non-negotiable,” the statement read. “That should be taken for granted, but it’s still not the case. That is why this message is so important to us. Denying us the bracelet is the same as denying us a voice. We stand by our position.”
Germany previously protested FIFA and the World Cup in Qatar before their opening game of the tournament. The world ranked number 11 team posed for a team photo with all the players covering their mouths as if they were being silenced. Japan went on to beat Germany 2-1 in the game.
German fans also jeered inside the stadium
Another clip from inside Al Bayt Stadium showed Germany fans being taunted with photos of Mesut Ozil. The former German international resigned from the team in 2018 due to allegations of racism and disrespect within the German Football Association.
Germany’s disappointing display was the second consecutive World Cup in which the team had failed to reach the knockout round. They were also knocked out of the group stage during the 2018 World Cup in Russia.
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