KUALA LUMPUR: Germany's hero Liam Holdermann faced a nerve-wracking ordeal a day before the Junior World Cup (JWC) on Dec 4.
The 20-year-old had chest pains and underwent checks at a hospital before being cleared to play in the tournament.
Holdermann was the toast of the German side, scoring the winning goal in the 2-1 win over France in the final in Bukit Jalil on Saturday.
He said he never expected to score the winning goal in the final.
"It was an emotional moment to score the winning goal and lift the JWC trophy with Germany.
"I never thought I would play in the JWC after having chest pains a day before the tournament.
"However, I did not allow it to affect me. I gave my 100 per cent throughout the campaign," said Holdermann, who scored four goals in the tournament.
Holdermann, who has 16 caps with the senior team, said the victory in the JWC will boost his career in the sport.
"The victory is a great way to celebrate Christmas with my family in Germany. Now, I hope to also shine with the senior team," he added.