Sami Khedira’s time in Recife, where Germany secured first place in Group G, will be remembered for both triumph and turmoil. While the German midfielder and his national team celebrate their success, Khedira’s parents faced a frightening ordeal in the Brazilian city.
According to the German daily Express, Doris and Lazhar Khedira were attacked by armed assailants last Sunday evening as they left their hotel. The couple had extended their stay in Recife to watch the tense Costa Rica vs. Greece match, which ended 1-1 and was decided on penalties. However, their decision to venture out contradicted warnings from the German Football Association’s travel agency, which advised against leaving the hotel outside scheduled activities.
Reports state that the Khedira couple was followed through the streets of Recife by two men brandishing handguns. The robbers made off with their wallets, watches, jewelry, and mobile phones, but fortunately, no physical injuries were sustained.
This incident casts a shadow over what had been a memorable tournament for Khedira and his family, highlighting the risks visitors sometimes face in major sporting event host cities.
