Germany’s Miroslav Klose (R) vies with Austria’s Emmanuel Pogatetz during a Euro 2008 Group B football match in Vienna June 16, 2008. (Xinhua Photo)
Austria came up with fierce count attacks in the following ten minutes.
In the 22nd minute Austrian striker Erwin Hoffer could face Lehmann directly, but he misplaced the ball.
In the 36th minute, Austria’s Umit Korkmaz drove in a cross to the center of the area, but Christian Fuchs’ header was over the top.
As the battle intensified, Loew and Schweinsteiger were eager to command the team and quarreled with the referee. Both of them were ordered to stay away from the commanding benches.
During the second half, Germany continued their offensive edge and the three-time tournament titleholders were rewarded with Ballack’s free-kick score 4 minutes after the interval.
To defend their dignity as co-hosts, Austria showed no retreat and they staged waves of counterattacks.
Austria made some good forays forward in the last stages of the game, but lacked the quality to beat the German defense.
Germany thus moved on to face Portugal in the quarterfinals, knocking out Austria and Poland.
“I feel good and I am happy about the victory,” said German coach Joachim Loew.
“It was a huge pressure situation, but it is also pleased to be able to games with pressure and emotion,” he added.
Ballack told press after match that the game was “tough” as expected, but Germany have resolved the challenges.
“The important thing was that we now have fought and played as a team,” he said.
German defender Philipp Lahm had already cast his eyes on next match against Portugal.
“With regard to Portugal and we will improve in all areas,” he said.