Germany's 1990 world cup triumph: a star-studded premiere brings back memories
Munich buzzed with excitement Monday night as the premiere of “A Summer in Italy – World Cup 1990” unfolded, a documentary reliving germany's historic World Cup victory. The event drew a who's-who of football legends and prominent figures, all eager to revisit a pivotal moment in national sporting history.
A gathering of champions
The Mathäser Filmpalast played host to a star-studded crowd, including nearly all of West germany's 1990 World Cup-winning team. Co-trainer Holger Osieck, 77, was also in attendance, alongside Bavaria's Minister President Markus Söder, who personally invited veteran Lothar Matthäus.
Matthäus, a key figure in the 1990 victory, fondly recalled the team's camaraderie. He spoke of the shared spirit and the close bonds forged during their time together, echoing comments previously made by Rudi Völler about winning the championship with his friends. The premiere wasn’t just a cinematic event; it was a reunion, a chance to reconnect with a shared past.
Tennis icon Boris Becker, surprisingly, made an appearance, a nod to his childhood admiration for Bayern Munich, a team he often supported while wearing the Magirus-Deutz jersey – earning him the nickname “Bully.” Actor and director Michael “Bully” Herbig, known for his comedic work, also joined the celebration, a testament to the film’s broad appeal.
The film draws inspiration from Nils Suling's SPIEGEL bestseller, “Wir Helden von Rom,” and features the author himself as a reporter within the documentary. Adding a touch of levity, Litti, a well-known figure, appears as a reporter being interviewed, playfully reversing the roles.
The premiere also served as a poignant reminder of Andy Brehme’s decisive penalty kick in the final, the moment that secured the World Cup for germany. Matthäus reflected on Brehme's contribution, acknowledging the profound impact of that single goal and the lasting memories it evokes. He admitted to cherishing personal mementos from his time with Brehme, reminiscing about their shared experiences both on and off the field.
Interestingly, the team last gathered in the summer of 2025 in Herzogenaurach for the 35th anniversary celebration with Adidas. This premiere, over a decade later, provides a powerful and emotional reunion.
Jutta Speidel, Bärbel Schäfer, and Giulia Siegel were also present. The film promises to transport viewers back to a time of national pride and unforgettable moments. The premiere wasn't just about remembering the win; it was about reliving the journey.
The film’s success is a testament to the enduring power of sport to unite a nation and create memories that last a lifetime. It’s a story not just of a victory, but of the people who made it possible.