Noel Urbaniack: Ballboy a national hero after quick-thinking act lands Germany UEFA Nations League win
A teenage ballboy having his first start with Germany’s national team has become an instant hero after his quick-thinking reaction led to an incredible goal in the UEFA Nations League.
Noel Urbaniack is enjoying his 15 minutes of fame after throwing a lightning-fast ball delivery to the German captain Joshua Kimmich, who caught their opposition Italy off guard, producing a corner kick for their second goal and helping to seal the series victory.
Germany’s 5-4 aggregate win over the Italians earned them a spot in the UEFA Nations League last four.
Sign up to The Nightly's newsletters.
Get the first look at the digital newspaper, curated daily stories and breaking headlines delivered to your inbox.
By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.Urbaniack, 15, was the focus of post-match attention with interviews and a signed football from the German team after the act of awareness led to remarkable scenes.
Kimmich was able to take the corner in the 36th minute with the Italian defence still in conversation and keeper Gianluigi Donnarumma metres from his goal, enabling the unmarked Jamal Musiala to make it 2-0.
“It is unbelievable. I have never been involved in something like that,” said Urbaniack, beaming and holding his signed ball after the quarter-final second leg in Dortmund.
“We had brief eye contact. I saw he wanted the ball and I quickly threw it to him. It was my fist time as a ball boy.”
German fans are rejoicing with team manager Rudi Voller promising the youngster special VIP tickets to the next national team match.
Germany, who drew 3-3 on the night for a 5-4 overall win after two legs, next play Portugal in the semi-finals in June.
With AAP.
