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Brazil World Cup 2014: Early Germany Goal Knocks out Les Bleus

Germany Vrs France
Germany Vrs France

A 12th minute Matt Hummels header was enough for Germany as they scraped past France 1-0 to become the first side to reach the semi finals in Brazil.

The two European heavyweights clashed under a scorching sun in Rio de Janeiro’s Maracana, the largest stadium in the world to slug it out for a place in the semi finals.

The first half was a tame affair, with Germany the better side taking a deserved lead, whilst a docile French side looked out of their depth. A second half resurgence however, saw the French nearly forcing extra time, Manuel Neuer saving a fierce Karem Benzema shot at the death to give Die Mannschaft the win.

Both sides made some changes to their line-ups from the Round of 16. German skipper Lahm went back to his favoured right back role for the first time in this tournament, whilst upfront Miroslav Klose started as he searched for his 16th world cup goal to eclipse Ronaldo. Griezman started for France, after his second half introduction worked wonders in their last game against Nigeria.

Germany was the better side for the entire first half, keeping the ball impressively whilst trying to break France down with quick one-twos around the French box. France relied on the break, wingers Valbuena and Griezman always in place to receive diagonal balls from the French midfield.

France threatened first, Karem Benzema’s volley just wide after a cross from Mathieu Valbuena. Germany’s delivery into the box from out wide was poor, seeing some headed clearances, whilst at the other end Valbuena’s cross on the counter was just a little behind Griezman, being cleared with a sliding tackle from Lahm.

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