http://disqus.com/people/3cc29c434c769a1086bf87b292d32127/enTue, 04 Jul 2006 20:25:00 -0000http://epltalk.disqus.com/fireworks_ignite_as_italians_reach_final/#comment-2196330Germany were worth the semi-finals on balance -- Klinsmann has done something no German coach has done that I remember and that is to make them play open, attacking football. But this was still an overachieving team and without Frings it was always going to be an uphill struggle; and that became all too clear within minutes of the kick-off. <br></br><br>Penalties in this game would have been an injustice with the inevitable German win seeing as how Italy are the only nation culturally less equipped than England to deal with a shoot-out.</br><br></br><br>Finally a word for the referee -- this guy is outstanding. Makes Pierluigi Collina look ordinary. He totally let the players play and resisted the temptation to project his ego.</br><br></br><br>So hopefully we look forward to an Italy-France final and may the best team win.</br>dblissTue, 04 Jul 2006 20:25:00 -0000