Jens Lehmann blocks Argentina from moving into the semi final
Germany and Argentina have been two of the strongest contenders to lift the world cup 2006. And hence the quarter final match between the two teams was exciting as well as disappointing. Exciting because the match promised to showcase the best football skills. And disappointing because one feared that the world cup to reach the climax much before the finals. Despite the hype that was associated with the match, I must confess that the match did not live up to all its promise.
Argentina took the lead in 49th minute when Ayala headed a corner kick into the goal. Germany could have avoided this goal had their defense been on alert. Thereafter, though Germany had to show a sense of urgency and equalise quickly to stay in the match. The equaliser from Germany was the high point of the match. Ballack’s cross from left flank was directed by Borowski towards Miroslav Klose who didn’t err in heading the ball into the net to score the 5th goal of the tournament. The equaliser from Germany came in the 80th minute. In the next 10 minutes there were no further goals and hence match went into extra time, which looked a major burden on the players. The players seemed to have resigned to penalties.
It was extremely painful to see Argentina exit the world cup on penalties. Germans looked cool and confident compared to their Argentine counterparts. Some good guess work by German goal keeper Jens Lehmann and poor penalty shots lacking confidence by Ayala and Cambiasso ensured Germany a berth in the semi final.
The seond quarter final was between Italy and Ukraine. Italy scored an easy 3-0 victory during which Tony scored twice. Contrary to their defensive game, Italians were a buyoant lot. Ukraine had their chances but Buffon was excellent in the Goal and thwarted easily all Ukrainian attemtps to score goals.
The 1st semi-final line-up will be Germany Vs Italy. Germans will have have the home advantage and Italians their defense to rely on. I expect a dull match. I won’t be surprised if the match gets decided on penalties.
