Bierhoff's departure from the German national team... the first victim of the World Cup

The German Football Association said that national team manager Oliver Bierhoff left his position two years before the end of his contract yesterday, becoming the first victim of an early exit from the first round of the World Cup in Qatar.

The former international, who took over 18 years ago, was widely criticized after Germany crashed out at the group stage for the second time in a row.

"Oliver Bierhoff has done a lot for the German Federation, and his name will remain associated with successes, even if we fail to achieve our sporting goals in the past few tournaments," DFB President Bernd Neuendorf said in a statement.

Bierhoff helped Germany win their fourth World Cup title in 2014, and Neuendorf said his efforts would not be forgotten.

He added, "He will always be associated with the success of the World Cup in Brazil, even in turbulent times he worked to achieve our goals and vision."

Germany was eliminated from the tournament in Qatar after losing to Japan and drawing with Spain, while its victory over Costa Rica in the last match of Group E was not enough.

Japan topped the group against Spain, who secured second place, ahead of Germany on goal difference.

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