Things actually started out well for the DFB. They started out with uptempo, attacking football, and had the Irish back on their heels, commiting their usual fouls and then complaining when their victims fell down. (Although the Germans still love their ridiculous swan dives.) After some 20 minutes, they were rewarded for their constant pressure by taking the lead. Miroslav Klose ran under Michael Ballack's pinpoint cross from the left flank. His diving header put Germany into the lead; his 4th goal of the tournament. However, rather then continue the pressure and go for the knockout, the Germans fell back into the all too common pattern: kick the ball around with aimless passing, and let the other team dictate the action. The first half was at least even, but the Irish were getting increasingly bolder. The 2nd half was a disgrace. Only a superb Oliver Kahn prevented the Irish from a deserved equalizer, as the Leprechauns were kicking German ass all over the field. Jancker was a broken down panzer upfront, and Ziege was a "totalausfall" in midfield. Memo to Christian: with that idiotic semi-Mohawk, you look like Mexican boxer Jorge "el Meromero" Paez - after he lost a fight. Finally in injury time, the Irish got their deserved equalizer. Oldtimer giant Niall Quinn knocker down a highball header that Robbie Keane snuck onto and slammed into the German net, leaving Kahn no chance at the near post.

An almost disgraceful performance and horrible outcome for Germany. They obviously thought they could nurse that sole goal into the next round, and the view was certainly shared by Voeller, who was outcoached by Mick McCarthy. Of the few bright spots, aside from Kahn and Klose, who had a decent match, the back 3 defenders were at least acceptable, holding up under the pressure. But when you're being overrun by Ireland, you've got a serious problem. Voeller needs to come up with some new ideas, or Germany could see themselves out of the tournament, which would be a disgrace beyond belief and should lead to rioting in the streets...