it's a mystical bond between man and machine

Saturday, July 01, 2006 | 7:08 PM

fantastico match Germany v Argentina 1-1 at 120 minutes, Germany winning 4-2 on penalties.

first goal in the 49th minute, just a few minutes into the second half, as Argentina stole the lead with defender Roberto Ayala's header after a pinpoint corner from Riquelme. Lehmann and Lahm missed the chance to block it. after this goal, Argentina tried to protect their one goal lead, which is ridiculous. playmaker Riquelme and Crespo were taken off, and on came Cambiasso and Julio Cruz, which is rubbish. later in the 80th minute, Germany equalised through Klose. a cross from Ballack, then a neat header from Borowski, and Klose beat his marker to head in the equaliser, his 5th goal at this tournament, for Germany from close range. after 90 minutes, still 1-1, after 120, still 1-1.

obviously it went into a penalty shootout, and Lehmann was the hero. even Oliver Kahn gave words of encouragement for Lehmann, and finally, the duo have finally appeared to bury their hatchet. i'll bet that was great for Lehmann, as he saved Ayala's and Cambiasso's shots in the shootout. Cruz's and Maxi's goals were cos Lehmann couldn't reach. on the other hand, Germany was excellent, with Neuville, Ballack, Podolski and Borowski in that order scoring in the shootout.

overall, an excellent game for Germany, and Danke Schoen Herr Pekerman (thank you Mr Pekerman) for the German fans, as Germany face Italy next in the semi finals.