Germany Rocks Tonight

Well i did not think so…

when it comes to penalty kicks it is anybodies game greman are playing at home.. but all in all very good game.

I don’t agree, Sakx.
You know I am a die-hard supporter of Deutschland, but it wouldn’t be fair to say they dominated this game. Argentina was playing extremely well, and Germans were suppressed for most of the time. Really disappointing, considering their brilliance in the previous games.
However, I should also say the following:
1.It is always tough to make a comeback in such a close contest, and Germany did it. Klose was looking outperformed, till he played his role in bringing up Germany. I think thereon, Germans played a much better football than Argentina. Unfortunately, there was not much time left (just 10 minutes of regular time, and half an hour of extra-time) for them to show the usual dazzling attack they have trademarked this time.
2.Ultimately, it’s not just skills and statistics of ‘ball-possession’ that count. Consistency, and sticking together like a team can do wonders in such a tight match. Ballack didn’t show his usual amazing attacking game, but he was there always as a rock in the midfield, rallying his team and carrying on inspite of injury and less-than-required fitness. THAT is the spirit and the positive attitude that can turn tables.
3.Considering penalty shootout, I would say it is as much a part of the game than regular playtime. Every team in this Tournament is prepared for that eventuality, and even though it’s slightly dicey, the odds are leveled out in the long run. It’s not just luck, but also skill, nerves and patience. You have to be good enough, not lucky. Lehmann proved his worth twice, and German shooters were consistent again. Isn’t that an example of keeping the nerve and performing when it matters the most?

The game was played fair despite a number of fouls (the highest by Germany so far, who normally play a very clean game). It was marred in the end by the anger and disgust of Argentina squad and that speaks for their lack of sportsmanship, too. It is only fair that we give both sides their due credit, and not make lame excuses for Argentina’s loss. It’d be shameful to shadow such a mighty battle by petty excuses and logistics. As fair observers, none of us can deny that Germany deserved this win not because they were lucky or they were playing at home but because they held together in sheer nerves and positive attitude.
It’s sad that Argentina have to go back because they are GOOD. But then, we proved to be better.
IMMER DEUTSCHLAND !!!!

Incidentally, (and this is totally out of context here) I was browsing through Indian newspapers online and came across this:

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/articleshow/1695991.cms

It’s sad, though not surprising. I thought Sakshi would want to read it.

Why Argentina lost is that they became overconfident and substituted their main players. A huge tactical mistake by the coach.

Riquelme and Crespo were replaced which is a huge blunder in this kind of a game. And they were replaced too early, even before the last ten minutes.

Where was Aimar, and where was Messi. I dont think either of them were having two yellows or a red. And what about Saviola (not sure whether he was also booked). The decision costed them a lot in extra time, where they were not able to penetrate the German defense convincingly, and also, they did not have anyone of caliber to shoot in the ball during the shootout. Penalty shootouts are like lotteries, and anyone can win. I still recall that Roberto Baggio miss in the finals (usa 94). And yeah, Oliver Kahn is a better goalkeeper than Lehmann.

Argentina was the team who was dominating. But then Germany is one of the best European teams. Superb precision playing.

But my favs are still around, so I aint much bothered. Hail Samba !! And I hope Portugal get past England today. They deserve it, its one of the best teams Portugal has ever produced.

The game was played fair despite a number of fouls (the highest by Germany so far, who normally play a very clean game). It was marred in the end by the anger and disgust of Argentina squad and that speaks for their lack of sportsmanship, too.
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@Harsh,

Yep true. But did you notice how Maxi Rodriguez was yellow carded. First Maxi Rodriguez was brought down by an ugly and deliberate tackle. Then the german player (i think it was Lahm) himself dived for no reason. He then got up, ran to the referee, showed him a thumbs up sign, and the referree booked Maxi. The commentator said regarding the German “He might also want to kiss the referree”.

Is it some kind of racism at work here??

Now, a yellow card brings a lot of pressure on the player. He has to be ultra careful to not even get into an unintentional foul. He cannot play his natural game. See how Portugal are under excessive pressure, since more than half their team has been booked.

Very bad display of sportsmanship by Germany too. I suppose Italians are angels compared to Germany yesterday. Too much play-acting by the Germans, and it was disgusting. And the referee seemed to be an amateur and somewhat biased.

@sakshi,

I wonder why you like all rough-playing, cheating teams. First it was the aussies , now its the germans. Next, I can predict it would be Italy.