World Cup Semi Finals - Late Goals See Italy to Finals (AET Germany 0 - Italy 2)

Talk about climaxing late. Italy scored two incredibly late goals in extra time to book a place in the finals of the 2006 World Cup. I had almost conceded to the game being decided on penalties.

The game itself wasn't a classic by any means. Both sides were nervous and given the occasion, it was to be expected. Italy dominated the first half with their tactical superiority and the Germans had the edge in the second with penetrating runs at their opponents. But neither could break the deadlock. The Germans as a team defended well, while Cannavaro once again shown for the Italians.

At the start of extra time, the Italians hit the post twice but failed to make it count. Podolski forced a brilliant save from Buffon on the other end, as penalties soon become the focal point on everyone's mind.

Italy in particular seemed to be playing for the penalties which seems somewhat strange to me. Given their piss poor experience as a national team with penalties, the last thing you would expect is for them to actually want to participate in another penalty shootout. Especially against a team like Germany who has only ever lost one penalty shootout in their entire history, and that was in the 70s!

Luckily for the Italians, they didn't have to. Right on the death, Pirlo, who had a fabulous game, somehow managed a pass to Grosso between 2 German defenders. Grosso hit the ball first time and it curled past the outstretched hands of Lehmann and into the German goal. Italy was thru.

With less than a minute left, Germany pushed forward but were caught out by the counter attack, leaving Del Piero alone with Lehmann. He flicked it into the top right hand corner, making the game beyond Germany. Not that there was any time left to play. The referee blew the final whistle, whilst the Italians were celebrating.

I'm personally glad Italy makes it. I bought pretty damn good odds on them winning the competition. Only one game left to win to see some money.