In working out how to defeat Portugal, Germany decided to use their heads.
Two of Germany's three goals came as a result of free kicks, and the Germans employed their trademark aerial set up to secure goals on both occasions.
The other main tactic that Germany had prior to the start of the match was to use Arne Friedrich to hassle Cristiano Ronaldo, and this tactic went exactly according to script.
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It did occasion one bad moment of unsporting behavior, when Friedrich appeared to deliberately stomp on Ronaldo's foot early in the second half.
Portugal put up a brave fight, but in the end they simply made too many mistakes, missing easy shots at goal and making tactical blunders.
Bastian Schweinsteiger was clearly the best German on the field tonight, but really his team can attribute their win to Pepe, who gave away a crucial free kick to allow Germany to score their third (match winning) goal.
They may also want to send a thankyou card to Nani, who opted to send a wild shot over the bar rather than pass the ball to players who were in a far better position to score.
The score at the final whistle was 2-3, and Portugal are going home. Once again, Germany has proved to be their nemesis.
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5 months ago
The real culprit was Simao on the left flank. He was flat and untroublesome for Germany all day. Nani made the one boneheaded play, but he also was the one who sent in the flawless cross that gave Portugal their second goal. For only playing 20 or so minutes he had a fine match. You're right though, Ronaldo was a non-factor at best. At least this time he didn't miss in penalties.
5 months ago
It was a good match, just a little disappointing to me because I would have liked to see Portugal go through and finally conquer Germany. It really was Portugal's to win, but then they do stupid things like give away free kicks for no reason (hitting that guy with his shoulder when they were not even "in play" was just the dumbest thing ever).
Germany played well, I don't mean to take anything away from their effort.
Portugal allowed themselves to be intimidated, I guess. They didn't play with passion, and they looked a bit like bunnies.
Now we must wait at least two years for another opportunity for them to show they can go all the way, but by that time some of our favorite players will be replaced. Perhaps it wouldn't be such a bad thing....
3 months ago
no the real culprits were Ricardo and Ferreira they were shit and should be replaced.
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