Effenberg was a German midfielder who was part of the squad in the 1994 World Cup. The Germans were playing South Korea on a very hot day in Dallas and the match was intense.
The Germans initially led 3-0, but the Koreans scored two and made it a close game. Germany needed the win and they eventually got it, however, the heat and the intensity went to Effenberg’s head.
While leaving the pitch, he made an obscene gesture towards the German fans. Coach Berti Vogts was furious and sent Effenberg packing immediately. Effenberg had a history of controversy and this was the biggest of them all.
“I overreacted,” he said. “I don’t regret it. But when I look back I am sorry. But it was 50 degrees Celsius. I was playing for Germany at the World Cup for a place in the second round.”
Many of his teammates disagreed with the punishment but the decision was final. Germany eventually lost to Bulgaria in the quarter-finals. This incident all but ended Effenberg’s international career, as he made just two appearances after that infamous incident.