2010 World Cup: Argentina v Germany half time report
Argentina 0 Germany 1
Another impressive, controlled performance has seen Germany take a 1-0 lead in their World Cup quarter-final match against Argentina in Cape Town.
Thomas Mueller broke the deadlock on the second minute with a neat header to hand Germany a timely lead, as Argentina attempt to find a way back into the match.
Mueller grabbed his fourth goal at this summer's finals with a well-flicked header after he got to the whipped-in free kick ahead of Nicolas Otamendi; but it was the brilliant delivery from Bastian Schweinsteiger which made the goal.
It was the perfect start for Joachim Loew's side, who were very bright in the opening stages.
Argentina initially struggled to find their feet in the match, and were failing to dominate possession in the same manner as their previous matches in this tournament.
Miroslav Klose was then presented with a glorious opportunity in the 23rd minute to double Germany's advantage, but the striker – making his 100th international appearance today – could only shoot over the bar after a clever pass from the impressive Mueller.
As expected, it was Lionel Messi providing the inspiration for Diego Maradona's side. The star man in the Argentina team weaved his magic on a couple of occasions, but found himself dropping deep to spark the Albicelestes.
On the 36th minute, the Argentinean did have the ball in the back of the net through Gonzalo Higuain. However, at least four Argentina players were offside when Gabriel Heinze played the pass, and the assistant referee rightfully disallowed the goal.
There were glimpses throughout the half that Messi and co will punish the Germans in the second half. As it stands, though, three-time world champions Germany are firmly on course to reach the 2010 World Cup semi-finals.
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