Bastian Schweinsteiger criticised for Ivory Coast comments at World Cup
Former Germany midfielder Bastian Schweinsteiger has faced severe criticism after describing Ivory Coast’s playing style as “wild” ahead of a 2026 World Cup group match.
The 39-year-old World Cup winner made the remarks while working as a television pundit for German broadcaster ARD.
He praised the athleticism of the African side but controversially characterised their approach as “sometimes unorthodox, a bit wild, and not quite as tactical”.
French publication L’Equipe noted the terminology sparked immediate outrage across social media due to its racist and colonialist connotations.
The former Bayern Munich star has not yet responded publicly to the backlash, nor faced sanctions from his employer.
Klopp walks out of interview
The off-field controversy quickly escalated when Jurgen Klopp was questioned about the incident by a broadcast reporter.
The former Liverpool manager, who is also providing television analysis for the tournament, was visibly angered by the line of questioning.
He interrupted the journalist to express his extreme frustration before prematurely ending the interview.
“And now you want to carry on this subject. I have no chance to answer this question.”
“Everybody likes it, so you bring me into this situation. It’s not my job that everyone likes it.”
“But this is a serious subject. And I don’t even know what is appropriate to say.”
The 59-year-old then sarcastically thanked the German reporter before abruptly walking away.
Undav secures late victory
Amid the media storm, Julian Nagelsmann’s side secured a dramatic 2-1 comeback victory at Toronto Stadium.
Franck Kessie had given the Elephants a surprise lead with 25 minutes remaining.
However, substitute Deniz Undav levelled the proceedings shortly after his introduction from the bench.
The 29-year-old forward then snatched all three points with a decisive strike in the fourth minute of stoppage time.
The European heavyweights have already guaranteed top spot in Group E following the narrow result.
They will conclude their group-stage campaign against Ecuador before travelling to Boston for a last-32 fixture.
