Now or Never

Italians and Germans - Clash of the Titans
Early this morning, millions of German hearts were broken by the mighty Italians. The Germans matched the Italians in all departments at all times except the last 2 mins of the game. Fabio Grosso slotted in the winner 2 minutes from the end of extra time while Alessandro Del Piero rubbed salt onto the wound at the last minute by slotting home the 2nd goal.

Grosso curls in a stunner Del Piero scores
The Germans who packed the stadium could not believe what had happened within those 2 mins. Moments before that, they were chanting their national athem as they anticipated another penalty shootout to determine the team which would march to the 2006 FIFA World Cup Finals.

Podolski stares into blank Klinsmann consoles Ballack
After the final whistle had gone, all the Germans cried, Ballack cried, Lehmann cried, Podolski cried, Klose cried... You might be wondering why on earth are the Germans so sad and dejected. Well, let me tell you this, if they had won this match, they are only 90 minutes a way from the FIFA World Cup Trophy. That is how close they are away from emerging Champions. So this time around, just like the 2002 edition of the FIFA World Cup, the Germans left with nothing except a 3rd or 4th placing which will be determined come this 8th July. They have to wait for another 4 years to have another shot at the trophy.

Ok, enough of Germany vs. Italy. Let's focus on tomorrow morning's clash between 1998 winners France and Portugal. France came into this World Cup without the form which won them the 1998 World Cup and the 2000 European Cup. They even drew with minnows South Korea and barely made it through to the 2nd round. But things changed when they beat Spain 3-1 at the last 16. That win not only boosted their morale but also installed them as favourites for tonight's match. Portugal on the other hand are trying to reach the Finals for a second time after 1966. Their last match against pre-tournament favourite England were not short of any dramas. That match ended 0-0 after extra time and Portugal won 3-1 on penalties.

England's Wayne Rooney was sent off in that match for allegedly stepping on Portugal's Ricardo Carvalho. Beckham was substituted due to injury and gave up his captain's armband after that match. Christiano Ronaldo scored the winning goal during the penalty shootout and many say that he will not have the chance of returning to England and play for Manchester United. Anyway, put on your jerseys and look forward to tonight's mouth-watering clash.

France vs Portugal - 3am (local time +8 GMT)
My take : Portugal wins