Wolfsburg first hosted an international fixture for Germany in 2003, with Rudi Völler’s side earning a 4-1 victory over Canada in front of 25,000 fans. Tobias Rau scored the final goal of the game that day, and in doing so became the first Wolf to score for Germany’s senior men’s team. With Germany facing Japan in a friendly at the Volkswagen Arena on Saturday, we caught up with Rau for his memories of that special occasion.
Germany have not been able to produce many convincing performances of late. How do you think they can get back in the groove?
Rau: “I think they need a eureka moment, which can perhaps come about through good performances. And we also need a society that isn’t always just looking for mistakes, but instead focuses on the good things about football. A lot of people only look for mistakes – and when you do that you obviously find some.”
Could that spark arrive in Wolfsburg?
Rau: “It could provide a first step towards creating a sense of euphoria ahead of the European Championship next year. I think it’ll be difficult to manage a complete turnaround, but it would be nice if the team could take a step in the right direction.”
What do you associate with the terms ‘Volkswagen Arena’, ‘national team’ and ‘Canada’?
Rau: “Those are all unforgettable words for me because that international game in Wolfsburg was one of the biggest highlights of my career. So many things came together in just a matter of weeks: the offer from Bayern Munich and saying farewell to Wolfsburg, where I’d really had two perfect years that were just great for me. To round it off with a goal at the Volkswagen Arena was indescribable.”
Do you enjoy thinking back to that time?
Rau: “Certainly. I always enjoy thinking back on my career because I remember the good things. There really were just positive memories – it was just a fantastic time.”
What ties do you still have to Wolfsburg?
Rau: “I’ve played with Roy Präger in the Legends team quite a lot. I was also in touch with Heribert Rüttger and Manfred Kroß for a long time.”
What do you think VfL can achieve this season?
Rau: “I think the Wolves’ performances have looked solid, so anything is possible. Having said that, there are a lot of other good teams. It would be a big success if they can qualify for Europe. I hope they can do it.”
