Henrichs: 'I was totally relieved when it went in!'

He converted the winning penalty in the match for fifth place in the U19 European Championships at home where the Germany youngsters put in a great effort and at least ended up with a consolation prize. The path to that outcome was rather odd as the 18-year-old Henrichs admits in our 04 questions interview.

Benny, what went through your head when you took the winning penalty?
Henrichs: “I have to be honest: In all the excitement we thought we’d already won because Holland had missed twice and we’d only missed one. Then we ran to the keeper and the ref said we had to take another one. That saved me the long walk and meant I didn’t have too much time to think about it. But, of course, I was totally relieved when the ball went in.”

Then you could all celebrate – and be satisfied with the Euros overall?
Henrichs: “At the end of the day we can be happy we’ve qualified for the World Cup. But it was a real blow to go out in the group stage. That still hurts. The best bit is we’ll have the chance to do better at the World Cup next year.”

You’re back with the Werkself now. Is that a big change?
Henrichs: “Of course, it’s completely different. At the Euros all the lads were my age and here at Leverkusen most of them have been in the game for years. But that means you can learn a lot from them so I’m happy to be back here.”

What are your targets for next season?
Henrichs: “I want to carry on where I left off last season. Play as much as I can and show what I can do in every training session. I’ll definitely put in one hundred per cent.”