BEIJING, July 1 (Xinhuanet) -- The game between Germany and Algeria didn't go exactly as anticipated, but in the end, the expected winner came out on top. Algeria's tactic of lobbing balls seemed to flummox the German defense, which looked slow compared to its opponent.
In the second half, Germany did a better job of controlling possession and not allowing Algeria to get free on counter-attacks. But no luck finding the net, and the 90 minutes ended at nil to nil.
Germany finally made the breakthrough just after extra time started, as substitute Andre Schurrle scored on an assist by Muller. In the 119th minute, Germany took advantage of Algeria's increasingly desperate attacks by adding a second goal by Mesut Ozil. Just seconds later, Algeria also found the net through Substitute Abdelmoumene Djabou, and set the final result at 2-1.
France overcame a brilliant performance from Nigerian keeper Vincent Enyeama.
In the 80th minute, Enyeama made a great stop on a Karim Benzema header, but on the ensuing corner kick, the Nigerian keeper couldn't punch the ball away, tipping it right to Paul Pogba, who made no mistake with his header. The goal broke the deadlock and French fans breathed a sigh of relief.
In the 91st minute, an own goal by Joseph Yobo gave France an insurance marker.
France will meet with Germany in quarter-finals on Friday.
(Source: CNTV.cn)
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