Germany right-back Robert Bauer has apologised for making a gesture referencing his nation's 7-1 victory over Brazil after suffering defeat to the Selecao in Saturday's Olympic final.
Olympic hosts Brazil beat Germany 5-4 on penalties to secure gold at the Maracana, earning some revenge for their heavy defeat at the same stadium in the 2014 World Cup semifinals.
FC Ingolstadt right-back Bauer, 21, showed seven fingers to the Brazil fans, many of whom had given Germany's Olympic side a hostile reception at the Maracana in Rio, but told reporters that he had only done so "in the emotion of the moment."
Germany's Robert Bauer apologises for 7-1 dig after Olympic defeat: https://t.co/oEsHaKRy9z pic.twitter.com/MkQz5MWHPS
- AS English (@English_AS) August 21, 2016
Bauer added: "I didn't think about it and it then it happened. In the end it was a stupid action, and I am sorry."
Bauer said that he did not recall the moment when it happened but after receiving feedback via social media he wanted to put things right.
The German defender said: "No offence was meant. I am thankful that I was able to be part of it here, and experience the country. It was the first I've been to Brazil."