After 24 years in the wilderness, Germany returned to the World Cup their first appearance since 1954.
| Team | MP | W | D | L | GF | GA | GD | Pts | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
|
3 | 2 | 1 | 0 | 9 | 4 | 5 | 7 |
| 2 |
|
3 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 2 | 0 | 4 |
| 3 |
|
3 | 1 | 0 | 2 | 4 | 8 | -4 | 3 |
| 4 |
|
3 | 0 | 2 | 1 | 4 | 5 | -1 | 2 |
Reaching the second group stage was an achievement for Germany, who found the competition at that level fierce and unforgiving. With 10 goals in 6 games, they carried a consistent attacking threat throughout.
Germany experienced an inconsistent group stage, and the mixed results were not enough to go through. Their campaign featured a 0-0 draw with Poland, a commanding 6-0 victory over Mexico, a 0-0 draw with Tunisia, a 0-0 draw with Italy, a 2-2 draw with Netherlands, and a narrow 2-3 loss to Austria. Despite competing with determination in the second first round, Germany's journey ended before the final.
1won4drawn1lost
10scored5conceded
Kept 4 clean sheets 4 draws in 6 matches.
Karl-Heinz Rummenigge led Germany's attack with 3 goals at the 1978 World Cup.
vs Mexico
group stage
The tactical mind behind Germany's 1978 campaign. Leading Germany at his first World Cup just 1 win in 6 under Schön.
Helmut Schön's team employed a defensive-minded approach, often relying on their goalkeeper to make key saves and neutralizing opponents' attacks. This strategy proved effective in some matches but ultimately hindered the team's ability to secure crucial victories.
