World Cup 2006
Semifinals
Italy  2-0 Germany

Italy proved yet again that they are a superb team.  After six world cup games they have yet to concede a goal to the opposition as the only ball finding the net so far was an own goal in the 1-1 draw with the USA.

In a match that at times was a thrill a minute back and forth affair the opening goal didn't come until the 119th minute.  A clearance from a corner found Pirlo and his superbly paced pass to Fabio Grosso invited the left footed first time strike.  With Lehman screened by players in front he didn't see the ball until it was too late and Grosso's exquisite curling ball got inside the far post side netting.  It was a terrific play and finish and fitting as the exclamation point to a wonderful semifinal.

Germany has still never defeated Italy in a World Cup match.  Germany's streak of never losing an international match at the Westfalen also came to an end with Grosso's stike.

The German's had created a few great chances of their own especially thru Podolski the best of which was a free header that he steered well wide and a near breakaway that Buffon saved neatly to confirm his status as the world's best keeper.  Gatuso's play kept Ballack from making much of an impression on the match throughout.  Italy also kept Klose starving for the ball and without his contribution Germany ended up working hard but producing little.

Once the match entered extra time it was clear the Italians would press hard to avoid a penalty kick round to decide the contest which Lippi told the world with his sub of Alessandro Del Piero who nailed the decider making the final score 2-0.  Going into the match Italy was 0 for 3 in shootouts in the World Cup while Germany had a record of 4 wins and 0 losses.

Thanks to Lippi and the superb Italian team this one would not be settled by penalties.

All credit to a great young German team for their fine play in the tournament.  They were beaten by the better team on this day, but you can be sure they will be back.

France  1
Portugal 0

In a match devoid of quality play France won their opportunity for a second Cup final on a penalty kick by Zidane.  About the only other thing noteworthy about the match was that Cristiano Ronaldo was booed loudly each time he touched the ball (for his constant griping at officials and penchant for what they call in Europe "simulation" apparently).  Perhaps the stands were full of England fans who blame him for the red card on Rooney.  I have to say it brought a smile to my face as it was really the only enjoyable thing about this match.

Seems as if the rest of the Portugal side didn't get the message as many of them continued to try to win advantage or get an opponent carded by their sometimes actually funny (and horrendous) dives.  In a World Cup that has been dominated by officials far too often this guy refused to card any of them for their amateurish and blatant attempts to deceive.  Portugal couldn't even produce quality simulation and I'm pleased they lost.  Not that France won mind you, but I'm sure glad Portugal didn't.

I just hope Italy pounds France into the turf and "simulation" and the ref isn't part of determining the outcome.

The World Cup deserves better.