Germany’s Thomas Hitzlsperger (C) vies with Austrian players during a Euro 2008 Group B football match in Vienna June 16, 2008. (Xinhua Photo)
Bayern midfielder Bastian Schweinsteiger was not among the players’ list as he was sent off with a direct red card at Thursday’s match with Croatia.
For Austria, star defender Sebastian Prodl, who salvaged Austria with a draw with Poland by earning a penalty kick in injury time, did not show up as he was booked with two yellow cards.
In a sold-out Ernst-Happel Stadium, Germany staged attack waves one after another during the first ten minutes as they were striving to booking a seat for the last eight.
However, ambitious Germany encountered fierce count attacks from co-hosts Austria.
During the first half, Germany had to see a 0-0 draw. Their best chance was created by striker Klose in the 4th minute, who penetrated in Austria’s area and delivered a super pass to Gomez, whose header just one meter away from the goal.