GERMANY 3 - 2 Turkey [Schweinsteiger 27', Klose 79', Lahm 90'; Boral 22', Senturk 86'], Euro '08 SF1

[mcgillianaire]

MATCH INFO

Die Mannschaft haven't won the World Cup or European Championship for twelve years, but tonight they produced a less-than-perfect performance to eke out yet another victory in the last four and propel themselves into their thirteenth World Cup or European Championship title match. Turkey were probably the better team and the German defence was found wanting on several occasions, but there's no doubting their attacking prowess and finishing touch. I wanted the Turks to go through and was devastated when Philipp Lahm produced a last minute scorcher. It reminded me of the first goal he scored in the last World Cup against Costa Rica, but from much closer range. It's now upto either Spain or Russia to give 'em a run for their money, and after their underpar performance tonight, we could be in for a thriller in Vienna if they're able to raise their game a notch or two.

Earlier, midway during the second half, the video images were lost (not once, but twice) all over the world due to a thunderstorm in Vienna. I don't know about non-UK viewers but we're very lucky here. The Beeb automatically switched to Radio 5 Live's commentary with the irrepressible Alan Green before switching back. It was then that I remembered the choice of watching the action without listening to the boring John Motson (as much of a legend as he is) and the redundant Mark Lawrenson. The footie was so much more interesting as soon as I kept the Radio 5 commentary while watching BBC One's video coverage. Can't wait for tomorrow night's match. Can we expect a replay of tonight's Belter in Basel? My money's on Spain, but I hope the Russians win. Unless Torres scores of course!

Comments

[pappubahry.livejournal.com]

We're getting the Five Live coverage on SBS radio. I have to admit to being disappointed by it - there's too much general talk and not enough description of the play. Better than nothing though.

[mcgillianaire.livejournal.com]

That's interesting that it's being broadcast over there. Too bad you're disappointed by it. I suppose it makes a huge difference when you're following radio commentary while actually watching the match - saves for all the play description that you felt was missing. I've not listened to many radio football commentaries or sports dedicated radio stations, but Radio 5 is by far my global favourite radio channel. Their football club commentaries are especially good because they cover one main match and then break into the other matches during the game, while providing updates on the other matches as the main covered game is going on. They also break-out with updates from other sports during half-time and other breaks, plus their post-match phone-in show is nothing short of legendary here. Alan Green, the main commentator on Five Live is by far the best of the lot. Even if they lack play description, it's mainly the passion and random facts that I really look forward to. As people tend to do with the cricket over here, they switch off the video commentary and tune into Radio 5/TMS.