EIt was a friendly game in the truest sense of the word. When the German national team beat Israel 2-0 last Saturday, things were peaceful on the pitch. Hansi Flick’s team made the game, Israel defended bravely. Referee Maurizio Mariani didn’t even have to show a yellow card.
But there is a shadow hanging over the game. A fan gave the Hitler salute several times in the stands. The 28-year-old man was identified during the game. “The German Football Association (DFB) strongly condemns a right-wing extremist incident during the international match against Israel in Sinsheim on Saturday,” said a DFB statement.
A spectator reacted in an exemplary manner during the game and informed a steward about the incident that took place in the first half. According to information from the DFB, the man was observed by security and fan support at TSG Hoffenheim and then taken to the police.
Criminal and association law investigations have been initiated against the man. A criminal complaint awaits him, said a police spokesman on Sunday.
