[ 11goals ] - Interview with Saskia Matheis (Eintracht Frankfurt)

Dear Saskia,

1. What 3 things fascinate you about football?

The team idea: You stand on the pitch with other people who are passionate about the same thing.

The complexity of the game: You cannot win a game without a coherent performance and functioning tactical coordination.

The spontaneity/fast pace of the game: In football you will never be able to create the same situation twice; new situations always arise in which you have to act quickly.

2. Your best football moment so far?

Winning the 2014 U17 European Championship after a nerve-wracking penalty shootout. Joy. Relief. Proud.

3. What do you think is the key to being happy?

The time to appreciate much more, to go through life a little more lightly, to stay positive and not get hung up on the little things that drag us down. There is a gift hidden in every situation, you just have to find it.

4. What motivates you or how do you motivate yourself?

The thought of what I have already achieved so far, what great moments and events I have already experienced and what exciting things are still waiting for me. I remember the goals I still want to achieve and that there are people who may no longer have the chance to do so.

5. What was the best decision in your football career?

At a young age I had to choose between competitive gymnastics or soccer. I chose football even though and at the same time because I was told that girls didn't belong on the football field and that I wouldn't make it far.

6. What goals do you have for yourself and for Eintracht?

My personal goal is to get fit and be able to play again without pain or concerns. I really hope that I can make it in time to help my team achieve their dream of reaching the final of the DFB Cup.

7. Your life motto?

I don't have a single motto, but I always try to believe in myself and my abilities, fight for my goals and continue to develop myself to be the best version of myself.

8. Does women's football deserve more recognition? What would have to change? (Compared to other countries; Spain, England, France)

Providing more financial resources and thereby making the league more attractive and also attracting other players to Germany, as is the case with the big clubs, would improve the quality of the game and thus attract more spectators to the stadiums. In England, for example, it works quite well. The most important thing, however, would be broad reporting and advertising for the sport.

9. If it were up to you, what song would be playing in the locker room before games?

Since I am completely tone deaf and have no knowledge of this area, I like to leave the playlist design to those who know. But you should be able to sing along :D

10. If you could change one thing in football: what would it be?

An objectification of the handball rule.

11. Your life without football would be...

...probably completely different, but definitely had something to do with sport.

Thank you, Saskia! Stay healthy and good luck with Eintracht.