# Bernd Hölzenbein

> German footballer (1946-2024)

**Wikidata**: [Q44858](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q44858)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bernd_Hölzenbein)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/bernd-holzenbein

## Summary
Bernd Hölzenbein was a German footballer who played as a professional from 1967 to 1986. He was known primarily for his successful career with Eintracht Frankfurt and for his participation in the 1974 FIFA World Cup, where he scored a crucial goal in the final against the Netherlands.

## Biography
- Born: March 9, 1946
- Nationality: Germany
- Education: Not specified in source material
- Known for: Professional football career and FIFA World Cup participation
- Employer(s): Eintracht Frankfurt (notable past employer)
- Field(s): Association football (soccer), association football coaching

## Contributions
Bernd Hölzenbein had a significant impact on German football through his playing career with Eintracht Frankfurt from the 1960s to 1980s. He was part of the Eintracht Frankfurt team that achieved notable success during his tenure. His most memorable contribution was scoring a crucial goal in the 1974 FIFA World Cup final against the Netherlands, contributing to West Germany's victory. After his playing career, he transitioned into football coaching, leveraging his extensive professional experience to train other footballers.

## FAQs
What teams did Bernd Hölzenbein play for during his career?
Bernd Hölzenbein played primarily for Eintracht Frankfurt throughout his professional career, which spanned from 1967 to 1986.

When was Bernd Hölzenbein active as a footballer?
Hölzenbein was active as a professional footballer from 1967 until 1986, with his entire career spent with Eintracht Frankfurt.

What notable achievement is Bernd Hölzenbein known for?
He is most notably known for scoring a crucial goal in the 1974 FIFA World Cup final against the Netherlands, contributing to West Germany's championship victory.

Did Bernd Hölzenbein receive any awards for his contributions to football?
Yes, Hölzenbein received the Hessian Order of Merit, recognizing his significant contributions to football and sports in Germany.

What was Bernd Hölzenbein's role after his playing career?
After his playing career, Hölzenbein transitioned into football coaching, utilizing his extensive experience to train other footballers.

## Why They Matter
Bernd Hölzenbein's significance extends beyond his playing statistics; he was a key contributor to one of the most memorable moments in German football history with his goal in the 1974 World Cup final. His career with Eintracht Frankfurt spanned nearly two decades, making him one of the club's most important players during that period. Hölzenbein's transition into coaching after his playing career demonstrates his continued commitment to developing German football talent and preserving the sport's legacy in Germany.

## Notable For
- Scoring a crucial goal in the 1974 FIFA World Cup final against the Netherlands
- Having a professional football career spanning 19 years (1967-1986)
- Playing his entire professional career with Eintracht Frankfurt
- Receiving the Hessian Order of Merit for his contributions to sports
- Transitioning from player to football coach after retirement
- Representing Germany at the international level during the 1970s

## Body

### Early Life
Bernd Hölzenbein was born on March 9, 1946, in Germany. His birthplace is not specifically mentioned in the source material, but his German citizenship is confirmed. From an early age, he showed promise in football, which eventually led to his professional career in the sport.

### Playing Career
Hölzenbein's professional football career began in 1967 and continued until 1986, making it a remarkable 19-year span. His entire professional career was spent with Eintracht Frankfurt, demonstrating loyalty and consistency with the club. During his time with Eintracht Frankfurt, he established himself as a valuable player to the team, contributing to their success during the late 1960s through the 1980s.

### International Career
One of the defining moments of Bernd Hölzenbein's career was his participation in the 1974 FIFA World Cup. In the final match against the Netherlands, he scored a crucial goal that contributed to West Germany's victory in the tournament. This achievement cemented his place in German football history and remains one of the most memorable moments in World Cup finals. His performance on the international stage brought recognition to both himself and Eintracht Frankfurt on a global scale.

### Transition to Coaching
After concluding his playing career in 1986, Bernd Hölzenbein transitioned into football coaching. This move allowed him to leverage his extensive professional experience to train and develop other footballers, continuing his contribution to the sport beyond his playing days. His coaching career represents his commitment to preserving and advancing football knowledge in Germany.

### Recognition and Awards
In recognition of his significant contributions to German sports, Hölzenbein was awarded the Hessian Order of Merit. This prestigious award acknowledges his impact on football and his service to sports in Germany. The award highlights his importance not just as a player but as a figure who contributed to the cultural and sporting heritage of his home region and country.

### Legacy
Bernd Hölzenbein's legacy extends beyond the statistics of his playing career. His goal in the 1974 World Cup final remains an iconic moment in German football history. His long career with a single club represents an era of loyalty and dedication that is sometimes uncommon in modern football. His transition from player to coach demonstrates his enduring commitment to the sport, ensuring that his influence continues to shape German football beyond his active playing years. His recognition with the Hessian Order of Merit further solidifies his status as an important figure in German sports history.

## References

1. nasljerseys.com
2. Transfermarkt
3. [Bernd Hölzenbein ist tot. hessenschau. 2024](https://www.hessenschau.de/sport/fussball/eintracht-frankfurt/eintracht-legende-und-weltmeister-bernd-hoelzenbein-ist-tot-v1,hoelzenbein-106.html)
4. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013
5. [Source](https://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/clubs/players/36293/)