World Cup Fever

Bastian Schweinsteiger secured third place for his nation, as the Germans deservedly won 3-1 over Portugal.

Germany started off the match with former number one goalkeeper Oliver Kahn between the posts, and rested captain Ballack due to injury. Kahn did an outstanding job in defending his goal and finished his international career with a great display. As a legend’s shine faded, another star risen in it’s place, in the shape of young Bayern Munchen sensation, Bastian Schweinsteiger who had a hand in all three goals.

On the other hand, Portugal started the game with mostly all their stars, except for Carvalho(two yellow cards), and Figo on the bench. The first half was an open game, with both teams testing each other’s defence, so it was a fairly entertaining game to watch, but with no goals in the first half.

Portugal continued their diving performances, led by diving master Christiano Ronaldo, who was also booed on every touch through out the 90 minutes of the game.

The brake through came in the 56 minute of the second half, when Schweinsteiger powered a penetrating shot at Ricardo that flew right between his hands. It got worse for Portugal, when again Schweinsteiger shot a powerful low freekick into the box, which was deflected by Petit into his own net. Bastian confirmed third place for Germany in the 78th minute, with another long shot at the far corner of Ricardo who flew full stretch towards the ball, but no where near it.

Portugal pulled one back in the 88th minute and got their consolation goal from a good Luis Figo cross, which was accurately met by Nuno Gomes’ head.

The final whistle was blown, celebration’s started with fireworks into the black sky. Only thing was missing was the World Cup.

Goals:

• 56′ Schweinsteiger, Germany (1-0)
• 61′ Petit, Portugal *own goal* (2-0)
• 78′ Schweinsteiger, Germany (3-0)
• 88′ N. Gomes, Portugal (3-1)