1. Overview
Erwin Stein (10 June 1935 - 26 July 2024) was a prominent German professional footballer who made significant contributions as a forward throughout his career. His journey in football began in his youth, leading him to a distinguished professional career, most notably with Eintracht Frankfurt, where he showcased his exceptional goal-scoring ability on both domestic and international stages. His impactful performances, including scoring two goals in the 1960 European Cup Final, solidified his legacy in German football history. Stein's transition to professionalism, a notable decision in his era, marked a significant step in his career despite organizational challenges. After his playing career, Stein ventured into business, remaining a respected figure until his passing at the age of 89.
2. Early life and youth career
Stein's football journey began at a young age, demonstrating an early passion for the sport that would define much of his life.
2.1. Early clubs and amateur national team
Erwin Stein started playing football at the age of ten with SG Bornheim. He later moved to Olympia 07 before joining SpVgg Griesheim 02 in 1954. His talents did not go unnoticed; at 24 years old, he was selected for the German amateur national team by Bundestrainer Sepp Herberger and his assistant Georg Gawliczek. Stein made his debut against the Netherlands on 15 April 1959, in Enschede, where his speed and attacking prowess were evident as he scored two goals, leading to a 2-0 victory.
His performance earned him another call-up for a friendly match against Poland in Hamburg on 16 May 1959, just before the final round of the German championship. Coming on as a substitute in the 63rd minute, Stein scored the equalizer in the 81st minute, securing a final draw. On 27 May, he was capped for the amateur national team a second time, netting both goals in a 2-0 win against England. He also scored the only goal for the DFB squad in a match against a Belgian XI held in Luxembourg to celebrate its 50th anniversary, which Belgium won 3-1. However, Stein's decision to sign professionally with Eintracht Frankfurt for the 1959-60 season made him ineligible for the German amateur national team. This move was a significant blow to the DFB's plans for the 1960 Summer Olympics qualification matches in November 1959, and Herberger, renowned for his strict adherence to amateur principles for Olympic participation, reportedly never forgave Stein for his "escape" from the amateur ranks.
3. Professional club career
Erwin Stein's professional club career spanned several prominent German teams, marking a transition from his amateur success to a distinguished professional player, particularly known for his prolific goal-scoring.
3.1. Eintracht Frankfurt
Stein's most impactful professional period was with Eintracht Frankfurt, where he played for seven seasons from 1959 to 1966. He made his debut for the "Eagles" on 23 August 1959, in Eintracht's first season match against SpVgg Fürth, contributing two goals to a 5-3 victory over SpVgg Fürth. He consistently displayed his scoring abilities in the Oberliga Süd, ending the 1959-60 season with 24 goals in the league.
One of the highlights of his career was his participation in the 1960 European Cup Final on 18 May 1960, at Hampden Park in Glasgow. Stein scored two goals against the legendary Real Madrid team, notably against defender José Santamaría, though Eintracht ultimately lost the match 3-7. Despite the loss, his performance on such a grand stage against a globally renowned opponent underscored his exceptional talent and determination.
During his tenure at Eintracht Frankfurt, Stein appeared in a total of 342 matches, including friendlies, scoring an impressive 267 goals. In the Oberliga Süd alone, from 1959 until 1963, he played in 107 matches and scored 75 goals. Between 1961 and 1962, Eintracht finished as runner-up in the Southern Oberliga, participating in the final championship round. He continued his strong performances in the Bundesliga, playing two more successful seasons from 1963 to 1965. In the Bundesliga, from 1963 until 1966, he contributed 14 goals in 41 matches for the Hessian team. His final appearance as an active player for Eintracht was on 4 September 1965, against Hannover 96, playing alongside notable teammates Jürgen Grabowski and Wolfgang Solz. During his time at Eintracht, he also reached the 1964 DFB-Pokal Final on 13 June 1964, which Eintracht lost 0-2 to TSV 1860 Munich.
3.2. SV Darmstadt 98
Following his impactful time at Eintracht Frankfurt, Stein moved to SV Darmstadt 98, where he played for three seasons (1966-1969) in the Regionalliga Süd. During this period, he transitioned to playing in midfield, contributing 18 goals in 83 fixtures for the "Lilies." His adaptability and continued presence on the field showcased his enduring commitment to the sport, demonstrating his versatility beyond a pure forward role.
3.3. Return to SpVgg Griesheim 02 and retirement
Erwin Stein concluded his professional playing career at his home club, SpVgg Griesheim 02, after the 1969-70 season. This return marked a sentimental end to a distinguished career, bringing him back to where his football journey began.
4. Major achievements
Erwin Stein's career was marked by several significant achievements, particularly during his time with Eintracht Frankfurt.
- European Cup runner-up: 1960 (with Eintracht Frankfurt)
- Intertoto Cup winner: 1966-67 (with Eintracht Frankfurt)
- DFB-Pokal runner-up: 1964 (with Eintracht Frankfurt)
5. After playing career
After retiring from professional football, Erwin Stein transitioned into a successful business career. He owned and operated multiple tobacco stores in the Frankfurt-Griesheim area. These establishments also sold lottery tickets, demonstrating his entrepreneurial spirit and continued engagement within his local community.
6. Death
Erwin Stein passed away on 26 July 2024, at the age of 89, leaving behind a legacy as a gifted footballer and a respected figure in German sports history.