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Hans Krankl
Austria 3-2 West Germany
Argentina 1978 | Second Group Stage
Estadio Olimpico Chateau Carreras, Cordoba
West Germany needed an emphatic win over Austria in their second group stage closer, coupled with a draw between Italy and the Netherlands, to keep their faltering FIFA World Cup™ defence alive. Austria were already eliminated, but having pipped Brazil to top spot in the first group stage, were no strangers to causing an upset.
Karl-Heinz Rummenigge had given the Germans the lead, but a Berti Vogts own goal drew Austria level and worse was still to come. Eduard Krieger picked the ball up on the left and floated a cross towards Hans Krankl, who controlled with his left and, while falling backwards, volleyed the adidas Tango into the top corner with his right.
Bernd Holzenbein quickly levelled and had seemingly sent Germany through to the third-place play-off, but Helmut Schon’s side pushed for a winner which allowed Krankl to net the deciding strike. The victory was Austria’s first over any German side in some 47 years, and is known as the ‘Miracle of Cordoba’ in the nation.
Austria v West Germany full match highlights
Wonder goals: Karl-Heinz Rummenigge v Austria
The best goals from Argentina 1978
