Germany advanced to the World Cup semifinals Friday, defeating Argentina in a penalty shootout at Berlin's Olympic Stadium after a tense match that ended level following extra time.
Argentina opened the scoring in the 49th minute through Roberto Ayala, but Miroslav Klose pulled Germany level with a header 10 minutes from the end of regulation. With neither side able to find a winner in extra time, Germany prevailed 4-2 in the shootout, with goalkeeper Jens Lehmann stopping attempts from Ayala and Esteban Cambiasso.
Lehmann acknowledged the weight of expectation on German keepers in penalty situations, while midfielder Torsten Frings credited the squad's growing confidence. Striker Lukas Podolski, largely quiet during open play, converted his spot kick against substitute keeper Leonardo Franco.
"We've put out Argentina so why not," said Frings, expressing belief the side could go on to win the tournament.
Germany will play their semifinal in Dortmund on Tuesday against either Italy or Ukraine, depending on the outcome of their quarterfinal later that same day.
Historical summary. TurkishPress restated this wire report, first published in June 2006, in its own words.