2006 FIFA World Cup Official Film

'Jurgen Klinsmann right on the edge of his technical area...'

'..smack it in...!

'My goodness me, will he smack it in?!'

'And here they've gone again!'

'Onside, 2-0!' 'It's brilliant!'

And the winner is...

Deutschland.

The 9th of June 2006.

After years of anticipation, Germany's moment.

The World Cup has arrived.

MAN OPENS WORLD CUP IN GERMAN

32 teams are competing for football's ultimate prize.

The FIFA World Cup is always unforgettable.

The greatest players in the game have gathered,

determined to make the tournament the pinnacle of their career.

For 31 days, the entire planet will be gripped.

"A time to make friends" is Germany's motto

for the competition, and the host nation delivers on its promise.

Fans from across the globe will join the party.

In 64 matches, the players parade their talents in front of

a combined crowd of more than 3,300,000 supporters.

And those inside the grounds are just the fortunate few.

Worldwide, over 26 billion people

will share the experience on television.

Football's universal language is simple to understand.

The 18th FIFA World Cup was all about passion, drama and dreams.

A new generation will enjoy the greatest show on Earth.

HE BLOWS LOUDLY ON THE HORN

STADIUM IS FILLED WITH NOISE

Germany's pursuit of the Trophy begins against Costa Rica, and

the first match in Group A gets the tournament off to a memorable start.

GERMAN NATIONAL ANTHEM PLAYS: "Das Deutschlandlied"

Munich is a fitting venue for the opening game.

The city in which Franz Beckenbauer lifted the FIFA World Cup

for West Germany in 1974.

Not too much is expected of Jurgen Klinsmann's side.

The Germans' recent results have been inconsistent.

And their heavy defeat by Italy in a friendly still stings.

Costa Rica believe they can cause a major upset.

REFEREE'S WHISTLE

But, with the home fans in a frenzy,

and the players pumped up by adrenaline,

Germany set a blistering pace.

COMMENTATOR: It should be picked up down that left side by Lahm.

Chances here, and the Costa Rica goalkeeper is beaten!

Six minutes is all it's taken for the scoring to start.

Germany's opener from an unlikely source, defender Philipp Lahm.

But the excitement is far from over.

COMMENTATOR: This is Costa Rica's opportunity.

They look for an offside. There isn't one.

Wanchope will equalise!

INAUDIBLE

The German response is emphatic.

Their advantage restored by Miroslav Klose,

a fine way to mark his 28th birthday.

COMMENTATOR: Schweinsteiger rolls it for Frings.

In the second half, Klose and Wanchope both score again,

before Torsten Frings has the final say.

A 4-2 victory.

The opening match is everything Germany could have hoped for.

And a warning to their future opponents.

On the streets, the supporters are ecstatic.

The style of their team's victory has confounded the critics,

and set the tone for the tournament.

World Cup fever is set to sweep the nation,

and everyone wants to be part of it.

INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC PLAYS OVER FOOTAGE

Just keep smiling. Good luck.

Ecuador and Poland make up the rest of the German's group.

COMMENTATOR: Flicked on dangerously, it's a very good spell for Ecuador.

Carlos Tenorio, with that deft header, gives Ecuador the lead.

Here's Kaviedes. Onside.

2-0!

Delgado.

Boosted by the fervent atmosphere on home soil,

Germany could always find an extra gear.

The side ends the group stage with three wins out of three.

Miroslav Klose was already shaping up

as one of the stars of the tournament.

Four goals in the group make him a forward to be feared.

In Group B, the favourites to progress are England

and Sweden, spearheaded by Zlatan Ibrahimovic.

But, against Paraguay in Frankfurt,

the English performance is a disappointment.

David Beckham's free kick teases a mistake from Carlos Gamarra

after just three minutes. Enough to win the match,

but England's only reason to smile in a lacklustre display.

Against Trinidad and Tobago, the alarm bells are ringing

with the score stuck stubbornly at 0-0,

and the Caribbean nation causing problems.

England are starting to despair

until, with just seven minutes to go,

Beckham's delivery makes the difference again.

COMMENTATOR: Cushioned header to pick out Beckham.

In towards Crouch!

Peter Crouch!

Gerrard, oh, yes!

Trinidad and Tobago had proved tricky for Sweden too.

A goalless draw opened the Scandinavians' campaign,

and they left it late against Paraguay.

COMMENTATOR: Here's the chance. And here is the goal, finally.

Finally, Ljungberg scores.

In the last round of Group B matches,

Sweden face England in Cologne.

The Swedes know a draw will see them through,

while the English have already qualified

but must avoid defeat to finish top of the group.

The match is marred by a serious injury for England striker

Michael Owen, who is forced out of the competition.

A bitter blow.

But English spirits are lifted in the 39th minute

by a bolt from the blue.

COMMENTATOR: Breaks here for Joe Cole.

Oh, brilliant, just brilliant!

England can't maintain their first-half momentum.

After Marcus Allbeck's equaliser, they are relieved

to see Steven Gerrard restore the lead with just five minutes left.

But Sweden deserve a draw.

COMMENTATOR: Edman takes the throw.

Oh, they've all missed it.

It's got in, it's 2-2!

Both sides finished the night looking forward to the last 16.

THEY SPEAK SPANISH

In Group C, Argentina take their bow against Cote d'Ivoire.

The Ivorians are seen as dangerous opponents

even though it's their first appearance in the finals.

Nonetheless, most observers expect the South Americans to hold sway.

COMMENTATOR: Riquelme has it placed.

Heinze is up there, Ayala's up there as well. Heinze almost got a touch.

And then it's turned home by Crespo!

Riquelme.

Well-timed ball. Saviola.

In the closing stages, Didier Drogba leaves his one and only mark

on the competition. But there is no African comeback.

La-la la-la la-la la!

Under Marco van Basten, the Netherlands rekindled

memories of the great teams of the past during qualifying.

The Dutch were unbeaten, winning ten of their 12 games

en route to the finals.

In Germany, the good form continues.

Maximum points against Serbia and Montenegro and Cote d'Ivoire

mean the Netherlands are safely through with a game to spare.

SHE SHOUTS OUT IN SPANISH

On the same day in Gelsenkirchen, Argentina put on a show

that will live long in the memory.

TANGO-STYLE MUSIC PLAYS OVER FOOTAGE

The 6-0 demolition of Serbia and Montenegro

equals Argentina's record victory in the FIFA World Cup finals.

COMMENTATOR: There's really good players.

Tevez.

Is this another goal? Of course it is!

After this, it's no surprise that many are tipping

the South Americans to take the crown.

THEY CHANT

The favourites in Group B are Portugal

who will face Angola, Iran and Mexico.

Mexico, Mexico, Mexico!

Luiz Felipe Scolari's Portugal team

contains largely the same group of players who finished runners-up

in the European Championship two years earlier.

And they now fully intend to go one better.

COMMENTATOR: It's Deco! Oh, magnificent!

Special goal from a special player.

In the group stage, the Portuguese are simply unstoppable.

COMMENTATOR: Maniche on target.

Three successive victories, and they had the talent to unlock any team.

COMMENTATOR: Luis Figo.

Luis Figo, Pauleta!

As Figo goes down, the referee says, penalty.

REFEREE'S WHISTLE

CROWD CHEERS

A promising start for Portugal

and their illustrious coach who steered Brazil to the title in 2002.

Mexico also reached the knockout stage,

largely thanks to their victory against Iran.

A full five points behind the group winners,

the Mexicans believe they can still improve.

And will need to, with Argentina to come.

THEY SING

MC: And then we look to the statistics between Italy And Ghana.

Group E.

In Hanover, Italy open their challenge against the Ghanaians.

Italian football is beset with problems.

A match-fixing scandal in Serie A has cast a shadow over the country.

The mood around the Azzurri is more black than sky blue.

The fans are looking to the legendary Marcello Lippi

to restore their faith in the game.

The 58-year-old has been stressing the importance of team spirit.

Andrea Pirlo will act as playmaker,

his creativity essential because Francesco Totti's inclusion

is a gamble after a season wrecked by injury.

Four-times winners of the Africa Cup of Nations,

Ghana are making their long-awaited first appearance

at the FIFA World Cup.

With the likes of Stephen Appiah, Sulley Muntari, and Michael Essien

at the heart of the team, they promise to be a tough proposition.

REFEREE'S WHISTLE

The Azzurri defence stands firm

to deny the Africans a successful debut.

Alessandro Nesta and Fabio Cannavaro

remain one of the world's best defensive pairings,

while the Italian midfield dominates throughout the first half.

The reward, a perfect strike from Pirlo.

COMMENTATOR: Unnoticed, and can drive it in for a sensational goal!

INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC PLAYS OVER FOOTAGE

Seven minutes from time, Pirlo turns provider,

Sammy Kuffour blunders and the points are secure.

Iaquinta. Kuffour slip. Iaquinta rounds the goalkeeper.

2-0 and there's every reason to believe

Marcello Lippi's men can go a long way.

The defeat doesn't take the spring out of Ghana's step.

Against the Czech Republic, they bounce straight back

with a 2-0 win of their own, always on top

after a second-minute goal.

Appiah. An opening here for Ghana, who score early on.

In the second set of games, the USA, who lost their opening match

3-0 to the Czechs, now have to stop the Italians.

The reaction to Italy's opening success was unbridled optimism.

Perhaps too much optimism.

Things start well enough for the Europeans.

And he'll try and curl it away from the keeper.

Brilliant goal!

Alberto Gilardino's acrobatic header has Italy in front.

But far from making sweet music after that,

the Italians begin to strike all the wrong notes.

Cristian Zaccardo's misjudgement is only the start.

Just a minute later, Danieli de Rossi is sent off.

Italy down to 10 men.

But, lucky, the USA later have two players red carded.

In the circumstances, Bruce Arena's side are satisfied

with holding the Italians to a draw.

All to play for in the final Group E games.

In Hamburg, Italy face the Czech Republic.

Both sides still in contention to qualify.

And finishing top of the group will be important.

The runners-up are likely to face a knockout encounter

with the reigning champions, Brazil.

Never a prospect to relish.

Inspired by Pavel Nedved, the Czechs make the early running.

The midfielder keeping his Juventus teammate Gianluigi Buffon busy.

The Italians hold out, but there's a series setback to come.

One of the rocks at the heart of their defence, Nesta, is in trouble.

With just 17 minutes gone,

his thigh injury poses a big problem for Lippi.

It's time for the coach to call on Marco Materazzi.

As backup for one of the most celebrated defensive partnerships

in the game, the 32-year-old isn't expecting to play a major role.

But the next three weeks will change his life.

There's no way of knowing,

as the defender prepares on the sidelines,

that by the end of the tournament,

he'll have savoured the highest highs and also become

the most controversial figure of the 2006 FIFA World Cup.

It takes just nine minutes for the giant defender to mark his arrival.

Materazzi!

He's only been on from the bench.

Materazzi once finished a season as Perugia's leading scorer,

helping to earn his move to Inter Milan,

though the majority of those 12 goals came from the penalty spot.

This is his first at international level.

The header rocks the Czechs, who lose their way

and lose a man before half-time.

Jan Polak's dismissal hands Italy another advantage.

But on the hour they go for the kill,

as Lippi sends on Filippo Inzaghi,

a player who can always sniff out a chance.

His first opportunity goes begging.

But Inzaghi is the type who will never let a miss

affect his appetite or confidence.

Three minutes from time, he's in the clear.

It's Inzaghi who is through.

Simone Barone keeps pace with the attacker,

sensing his own opportunity to get on the score sheet.

For a second, Inzaghi seems to consider passing,

his hand gesture enough to put doubt in Petr Cech's mind.

But anyone who knows Filippo would have guessed

the ultimate outcome.

Filippo Inzaghi...

..has the beating of Petr Cech.

Three golden points for Italy, who win the group

and eliminate the Czech Republic.

Joining them in the last 16 are Ghana, who add

to their victory over the Czechs with a 2-1 success against the USA.

Group F kicks off with a meeting between Australia and Japan.

Guus Hiddink's side fall behind against Zico's team.

But the Aussies are saved with six minutes left

by substitute Tim Cahill.

Australia score for the first time ever in the World Cup finals.

It inspires an astonishing late turnaround,

as the Australians go on to win 3-1.

Cahill. It's his day.

Australia's first World Cup adventure in 32 years

is off to a fabulous start. And the Socceroos are bouncing.

The match in Kaiserslautern is only the appetiser,

attention quickly turns to Berlin.

Mwah!

Brazil!

The first appearance of the Brazilians

is always a moment to relish.

On 13 June, in a stunning venue, the fans get their first glimpse

of a side that can be every bit as spectacular.

The world champions are in town.

For all the famous faces,

the outcome of Brazil's opening match is no foregone conclusion.

Croatia didn't lose a game in qualifying -

seven wins in those 10 matches are cause for optimism.

A crowd of 72,000 expects exceptional entertainment.

Brazil, though, find the match hard going.

The Croats deny the holders the space to play

their sparkling football and look dangerous themselves.

Just as it seems the game will be goalless at half-time,

a Brazilian icon steps up to the plate.

Here comes another Brazilian move.

It's Kaka.

It's terrific!

That 44th-minute goal is enough to clinch the points.

Croatia, though, do avoid any more damage

and create enough problems to inspire hope in all the sides

who have their hearts set on taking the Brazilians' crown.

Next, the champions face Australia,

a side still bubbling from their remarkable game with Japan.

Brazil assert their authority.

Adriano.

Goal for Brazil!

This is more like the fans expected.

The samba boys are finding their rhythm.

The pace picks up against Japan.

Ronaldo.

It just had to be Ronaldo.

13 goals now in the World Cup finals.

4-1 the final score.

The Brazilians progress ahead of Australia,

the challenge finally in full swing.

In Stuttgart, the French get under way.

The 1998 champions were a huge flop at the last tournament,

finishing bottom of their group.

Raymond Domenech is the man charged with

the responsibility of restoring the team's pride.

And he's given the old guard a chance to redeem themselves.

Zinedine Zidane retired from international football

after the team's disappointing European Championship.

But he reversed his decision a year later.

He says this competition will now be his swansong.

Switzerland provide the first obstacle.

The Swiss drew twice with the French during qualifying

and this match goes the same way.

No matter how much Zidane attempts to dazzle,

the side's killer instinct is missing.

The Swiss absorb every attack, the 90 minutes finished goalless.

South Korea are the next opponents for France.

The Asians are fresh from a 2-1 win over Togo.

But they are soon trailing in Leipzig.

A touch and return by Wiltord,

whose shot will fall to Thierry Henry.

France fail to build on their advantage

and they pay the price with only nine minutes left.

Ji-sung Park's equaliser puts the French in deep trouble.

Their qualifying prospects hang by a thread.

And there's more bad news.

A jumpy Zidane concedes a pointless foul which brings a costly booking.

His second yellow card of the tournament means the France captain,

their most influential figure,

will now be banned for the decisive match against Togo.

Domenech's expression tells the story.

In stoppage time, Zidane is withdrawn.

It could be his last appearance in professional football.

A potentially depressing finale.

The scoreline stays 1-1.

Switzerland and South Korea are bracketed together

at the top of the group after they both beat Togo.

The final day in Group D is terrifying for France.

Switzerland and South Korea have four points apiece,

the French just two.

Only a win against Togo can carry them into the last 16,

and if the Swiss and Koreans draw in the other game,

even that may not be enough.

For almost an hour, France are frustrated.

The healthy winning margin they require

to guarantee progression seems a long way off.

The tension is palpable. But in the space of six minutes, relief.

Ribery.

Pulls it back here towards Vieira.

Vieira.

And Henry...

Two long-standing heroes to the rescue.

And another, Zidane, will grace the pitch again.

Switzerland see off South Korea 2-0 to finish top of the group.

In the last 16, France will have the harder match.

THEY SING

Espana!

In Group H, Spain are favourites.

Ukraine, Tunisia and Saudi Arabia complete the line-up.

First real chance for Spain.

And they follow it up with a goal.

The Spanish were unbeaten through qualifying

and boast some outstanding players.

They seem convinced this could finally be their year.

Torres!

Oh, what a strike!

Venomous attack.

They sprung forward with real purpose.

The Spaniards give nothing away. Three games - nine points.

Eight goals scored and just one conceded.

A nation which arrived in Germany

notorious for underachieving in major tournaments

is beginning to believe.

Ukraine are making their debut in the FIFA World Cup.

With Andriy Shevchenko leading the line,

there were always likely to be a threat.

The skipper leads his team to victory over Saudi Arabia and Tunisia.

Ukraine's first foray into the finals

will last another few days at least.

And so into the last 16. The climax of the competition in Berlin

is still more than two weeks away.

But from now on, for the nations involved,

every match will feel like a final.

On 24 June in Munich, the knockout stage begins.

Germany face Sweden,

and of course there's not a spare seat anywhere in the stadium.

Swept forward on a wave of excitement,

the host nation makes a dream start.

Munich erupts to the goal by Lukas Podolski.

Klose doesn't score,

but twice opens the way for his strike partner.

A cross here from Miroslav Klose.

Oh, it's a lovely little ball, and Podolski's got through.

Only 12 minutes after kick-off, the contest seems as good as over.

Before half-time, Sweden have defender Teddy Lucic sent off.

But the 10 men refuse to accept their fate

without putting up a fight.

In the 53rd minute, Henrik Larsson goes to ground,

a golden opportunity for the veteran.

Larsson is the loneliest man in the stadium.

Germany march on,

now firmly established as one of the favourites.

The team's progress has captured the imagination of the entire country.

Everybody wants a piece of the action.

The whole world is keen to see Argentina's next match.

Mexico may fear they will be swept away like Serbia and Montenegro,

though they do have one Argentine on their side,

coach Ricardo Lavolpe.

In theory, this should be a breeze for the South Americans.

They are in for a surprise.

A little flicked header

and it's in! Marquez.

Mexico defender Rafael Marquez opens the scoring

inside the first six minutes.

It's not an advantage the Mexicans enjoy for very long.

Find the space. Riquelme gets it over.

Oh, it's in, it's an own goal! It's an equaliser.

Jared Borgetti's attempt to clear is no help to his team,

though Hernan Crespo is happy to claim the credit.

The score is all square again with just 10 minutes played.

But it stays that way into extra time,

the match decided by a touch of genius.

All the way to the back edge of the penalty area to Rodriguez.

On the left foot.

What a goal!

What a strike!

The volley from Maxi Rodriguez

is one of the tournament's most memorable moments.

And it's timely for an Argentina team struggling to overcome

brave and resilient opponents.

Jose Pekerman's men squeeze into the quarterfinals.

When Ecuador and England meet in Stuttgart,

the match is equally tight.

Sven-Goran Eriksson's side are favourites, but they must rely

on the dead ball prowess of their talismanic captain to progress.

It is David Beckham.

And it's useful.

Beckham scores for England.

The 31-year-old in a familiar role as England's saviour.

Beckham becomes the nation's first player to score at three World Cups.

And for the second World Cup running,

England reach the last eight.

An enticing affair in Nuremberg. The Netherlands against Portugal.

Marco van Basten surprisingly dropped striker Ruud van Nistelrooy,

but Luiz Felipe Scolari starts with the full complement of big names.

Neither side will finish with all their stars.

The only goal comes after 22 minutes.

Deco.

Into Pauleta.

1-0 to Portugal.

And it's the man who scored the winner against the Netherlands

in the European Championship semifinal...

It's the highest point of a match

which becomes more notable for all the wrong reasons.

It's a heated encounter.

The spotlight falls on referee Valentin Ivanov,

who is forced to repeatedly take action.

16 bookings equals the World Cup record,

and four red cards, two for each team,

is a new low point in the competition's history.

Away from the storm on the sidelines,

Giovanni van Bronckhorst and Deco make peace.

One positive sporting image.

The sides finish with nine men apiece.

The Dutch suffer their first competitive defeat under Van Basten,

while the Portuguese look forward to facing England, the nation

they knocked out of the European Championship two years earlier.

Ukraine are relishing their first appearance

at the FIFA World Cup finals.

After getting through the group, every step forward is now a bonus.

The Swiss had their hearts set on a place in the quarterfinals

for the first time since 1954.

In 120 minutes, the teams can't be separated.

Penalties will decide who wins.

And he saved it.

Three misses.

It's Oleh Husyev's chance to make more history.

If they score this, they're through.

Husyev.

He's done it, they're through!

Ukraine are through to the last eight.

Switzerland hadn't conceded a goal in the entire tournament

before the shootout.

But they depart.

Ukraine's dream is still alive.

In the Fritz-Walter Stadium in Kaiserslautern,

Australia face a stern test.

Italy are firm favourites, but Guus Hiddink got the better

of the Azzurri four years ago with South Korea.

He's one of the wisest men in the game.

The Australians need the performance of their lives

against an Italian team brimming with quality.

They settle quickly and are rarely seriously threatened.

Though Hiddink's men find it hard to make an impact themselves

against Italy's notoriously rugged defence.

Lippi's approach is adventurous.

Alessandro del Piero is included as part of a three-pronged attack.

Hiddink hopes to catch the Italians on the break.

And shortly after half-time his side receives a major boost.

Marco Materazzi is in the limelight again.

Not a hero this time, but a villain.

His lunge at Marco Bresciano

means the match has suddenly become a lot more complicated for Italy.

The coach is concerned. Now it's Australia who are setting the tempo.

Italian chances are few and far between.

But at the back they remain stubborn as ever.

Buffon and Cannavaro prove to be an impenetrable barrier.

With 15 minutes to go, Lippi plays his trump card.

Del Piero is withdrawn, replaced by the darling of the Roma fans,

Francesco Totti.

At his best, an inspirational figure.

Into injury time, and still the sides are deadlocked.

Totti.

Grosso.

And still Grosso. He's done brilliantly.

Play on, says the referee.

It's going to be a penalty kick for the Italians.

Fabio Grosso's inclusion in Italy's squad wasn't universally popular.

But the Palermo defender's surge into the box

has made the difference. He'll have plenty of admirers now.

95 minutes have elapsed.

Whatever happens, the next kick will be the last of normal time.

It's a moment made for the star who came off the bench.

Though Totti spent most of the season injured on the sidelines,

when his country needs him the most, he's ready.

Possibly not fully fit, but certainly fully focused.

He soaks up the pressure and steadies his nerve.

And Italy go through.

Totti is the name, Totti's done the Italian job for them.

And the three-times champions Italy have scrambled home.

Thanks to Francesco Totti's brilliantly struck penalty kick.

And that was the moment

that Italy continued their march towards the final.

And the Australian dream ended.

10-man Italy snatched their victory right at the death.

The performance not pretty, but the Azzurri's resilience shone through.

Antipodean hearts are broken as one of the powerhouses

of European football edges through to the final eight.

Another team hotly tipped for the title take to the field

for a fascinating showdown with Ghana,

an adversary not to be underestimated.

Carlos Alberto Parreira is taking nothing for granted.

Brazil include all of the fab four.

With Ronaldinho, Kaka, Adriano and Ronaldo in the same line-up,

it's as good as guaranteed that there will be goals.

The Africans keep the Brazilians at bay for less than five minutes.

They've played a very high line here. They're onside.

Ronaldo, is this the record?

It sure is.

The opener makes Ronaldo the most prolific forward

in the history of the competition.

On German soil, he surpasses the scoring record

set by the great Gerd Muller.

It's Ronaldo's 15th goal in his fourth World Cup tournament.

Ghana have their moments.

But the boys in yellow and blue are simply too strong.

At the moment they're stringing all these passes together

to try and emulate Argentina.

Is it going to be a great goal here? It is, you know.

This is going to be one of the great goals of the World Cup.

Ze Roberto gets the third to wrap up a comprehensive victory.

No mercy is shown to Ghana.

The World Champions have no intention of relinquishing their title.

FRENCH NATIONAL ANTHEM PLAYS

In Hanover, it's France against Spain.

Unimpressive in their group,

the French require substantial improvement

if they are to topple a team that have so far been superb.

Since Luis Aragones took charge after Euro 2004,

Spain haven't lost a single match, a run of 25 games.

This looks dangerous, back post.

Headed away and picked up by Xavi Alonso.

And the referee is going to give a penalty kick.

Handball, I think it was.

And the French are surrounding the referee, Rosetti, from Torino.

Pablo it was, and Lilian Thuram into the back of Pablo.

This will be a challenge for Raymond Domenech.

It is David Villa.

He scores! And Spain lead.

Spain are in front, but there's an hour still to play.

Zinedine Zidane is determined to make full use of his reprieve.

Having feared his international career had finished

in the group stage, the French maestro now appears

to be back to his bewitching best.

France take control of the match and deserve a goal.

It eventually comes from their brightest hope for the future.

Vieira.

It's opened up this time, he's on side here,

big, big chance for Ribery.

Must surely equalise.

France are level.

And it was a touch of genius from Ribery.

The scoreline all square at the break.

The second half is a tantalising prospect.

In a dangerous position, Zidane weighs up his options.

Extra time is looming. There are just seven minutes left.

The French have plenty forward as Zidane takes it.

He's away, and...

..Patrick Vieira may have won the match for France.

In stoppage time, Zidane still has the stamina

to win back the ball and spring into action.

The master of the midfield can put the result beyond doubt.

Zinedine Zidane...

3-1. The French are in the quarterfinals.

It's Zizou, and it's goodbye Spain, I'm afraid, again.

France complete the last eight line-up,

and their greatest player has the bit between his teeth.

The 2006 FIFA World Cup continues to get better and better.

Germany is captivated.

The atmosphere is red hot right across the country.

The fan parks are packed.

In total, 18 million people gather to watch

the most technically advanced coverage of a tournament there's ever been.

Pictures seen in 214 countries around the planet.

It's now just nine days before the trophy will be lifted in Berlin.

A clash between Germany and Argentina would be a worthy final.

But the two eminent footballing nations

must face each other in the final eight.

The backing of the home fans should be an advantage for the host nation,

but Argentina have strength in depth.

And the rising expectation can bring its own pressures.

It's bound to be a tense afternoon.

Four minutes into the second half, the Olympic Stadium is silenced.

Sorin's header... free header, it's in!

It's Ayala. And Argentina have the lead.

Jose Pekerman has built the team around Juan Roman Riquelme.

The playmaker is entrusted with the task

of dictating the tempo of the play.

In the 72nd minute, the coach decides to change his strategy -

to defend the advantage.

Riquelme comes off, replaced by Cambiasso.

One minute later, Maxi Rodriguez almost seals the victory.

But Pekerman's tactical switch has shifted the balance of power.

Argentina are sitting deeper

and losing their control of the midfield.

With only 10 minutes to go, the German pressure takes its toll.

Ballack.

Chips on here, they're level!

Germany's star of the group stage has delivered when it matters.

Miroslav Klose's fifth goal of the tournament, his most important yet.

With their energy ebbing away,

both teams bring fresh legs from the bench.

Argentina, to the surprise of many, leave Lionel Messi unused.

The two weary sides battle through 30 extra minutes.

Their destiny will be decided from the spot.

There are plenty in the ground who can't watch.

There are others who have no choice.

The Germans are making no mistakes.

Next up is Argentina's Roberto Ayala.

Advantage Germany.

The defender, so joyous after giving Argentina

they lead earlier in the match, is now plunged into despair.

By the finish, he's in good company.

Cambiasso.

He saves it, Germany are through!

Another save makes Jens Lehmann a national hero

and leaves Esteban Cambiasso close to tears.

In the aftermath, tempers flare.

It's an unsavoury finish.

The German Torsten Frings will be suspended as a result

and unable to play in the semifinal.

Next to make their bid for a semifinal berth

are Italy and Ukraine.

Finishing top of the group helped the Italians secure a match

with one of the less heralded teams in the tournament.

But, with Nesta still missing, and Materazzi suspended,

the Azzurri must rely on the inexperienced Andrea Barzagli at the back.

At the centre of the front line is Luca Toni,

still awaiting his first goal.

Ukraine pinned their hopes on a striker who knows all about

the rigours of the Italian game.

Shevchenko is a legend in Milan.

It's Italy, though, who make the running,

eager to establish an early foothold.

Here's a good run from Zambrotta.

Oh, what a goal from Gianluca Zambrotta!

The perfect start.

Zambrotta's seventh-minute strike means

Ukraine must change their game plan.

They push forward,

only to find Italy once again refusing to be breached.

Zaccardo's own goal in the USA match remains the only one

the Italians have conceded.

No opposing player can get the better of Buffon.

Totti now.

A useful ball in.

They've got their second!

And Luca Toni has flown in his first World Cup goal.

They're on their way to play Germany now, you would feel.

And on the counter-attack Lippi's team can be lethal.

And a run here from Zambrotta.

It must be three.

Unless he's offside. Is he?

Toni, having not got a goal in four games,

has got two in less than 10 minutes.

So, Luca Toni off the mark.

With the shrewd guidance of their experienced coaching staff,

Italy are showing lots of potential.

Solid at the back, united as a team, and with nine goals now

shared between eight different players, the Azzurri seem sure

to give Germany a run for their money in four days' time.

Ukraine had no answers.

Could the host nation be next to suffer?

In Gelsenkirchen,

all the attention is for Portugal and England.

In the last two major international tournaments,

Luiz Felipe Scolari's tactics have proved too good for Sven-Goran Eriksson,

Luiz Felipe Scolari's tactics have proved too good for Sven-Goran Eriksson,

while David Beckham against Cristiano Ronaldo

is a fascinating subplot amid the bigger picture.

The game doesn't take off. Figo tries to up the tempo.

Nothing changes.

In the second half, a worrying sign for England.

Beckham is unable to continue.

Six minutes after the restart,

England have lost one of their key men.

There's more bad news to come. In many respects an even bigger loss.

The young Wayne Rooney can be brilliant, but also volatile.

A straight red card for treading on Ricardo Carvalho

leaves the English a man light.

Victory should be there for the taking, but Portugal discover

that adversity brings the best out of their opponents.

Against the odds, the game goes to penalties.

England are unnerved by the sight of Ricardo.

Two years earlier, in the European Championship,

the keeper's agility in the shootout pushed the English to the brink.

He even converted the winning spot kick himself.

This time, the saves are enough.

The responsibility of taking Portugal into the last four

rests on the shoulders of a player who relishes the limelight.

Cristiano Ronaldo can send Portugal

to their first World Cup semifinal in 40 years.

Is the waiting over here for Portugal?

It is.

Not since the days of Eusabio

have the Portuguese enjoyed such a successful World Cup.

Memories of 1998 are stirred by the last of the quarterfinals.

In that year at the Stade de France,

Zidane destroyed Brazil to collect the trophy on his home turf.

Many of the players know each other from their clubs

and share a friendly word or two before the contest begins.

These nations are the last two winners of the tournament

and many of the players are still the same.

France have bounced back from an underwhelming start.

There were flashes of the old French flair in the victory over Spain

and signs the inspiration and conviction of the past are returning.

Brazil's supporters believe a sixth World Cup winning star

will soon be embroidered onto the shirts.

And the champion's approach is as stylish as ever.

For all the flamboyance, there is no breakthrough,

and the Brazilian machine is brought crashing to earth.

These flashing feet belong to Zizou.

The captain is in full flow.

The South Americans are left chasing shadows

as Zidane rises to the occasion.

He's a joy to watch for all but the most ardent Brazil supporters.

The midfielder has turned the tables,

the Brazilians are being beaten at their own game.

Zidane's trickery lights up the night.

It will mean nothing if there's no end result.

France are getting closer.

12 minutes into the second half,

their driving force lines up another precision delivery.

Danger now. Here is a big, big chance. France have the lead!

Thierry Henry has stooped for the glory

and it's Brazil 0 France 1.

The free kick is so accurate it could be laser guided.

Dida has no chance.

Brazil are stunned.

They try everything to turn the tide.

On come Adriano, Cicinho and Robinho.

None of them make any impact.

Even the record-breaking Ronaldo's goal touch deserts him.

Another famous victory for France.

Brazil's first defeat in a World Cup game

since that match in Paris eight years ago.

It completes a clean sweep for the semifinals -

all four teams that remain are from Europe.

As the final four prepare,

others can only reflect on their broken dreams.

Some of the most fancied challengers have fallen by the wayside.

In the space of the first three weeks the FIFA World Cup has

once again summoned up emotions that go beyond sport.

From sheer delight to absolute anguish.

As the competition reaches a crucial stage,

more will savour the taste of success.

Others, only the salty tang of their tears.

Those fortunate enough to be taking the next step to compete

for a place in the final have no way of knowing if they will win or lose.

But for every player still in the tournament,

the experience is guaranteed to be one they will never forget!

THEY CHANT: Jurgen Klinsmann, Jurgen Klinsmann!

Dortmund provides the setting for the first semifinal.

Germany will face Italy.

It's a showdown that has produced epic matches in the past,

a fixture not to be missed!

Many of the Germans feel they're destined for the final, their final!

The stadium is dominated by the team's colours.

Jurgen Klinsmann appears calm, as you'd expect from a man

who as a player won the trophy himself in 1990.

Klinsmann was a formidable forward, of course, and he's banking on

his frontline of Klose and Podolski to enjoy another fruitful evening.

Italy have only 5,000 inside the ground

but Lippi's team is not the sort to be intimidated.

The only change from the quarterfinal is

the return of Marco Materazzi.

Francesco Totti starts, with Del Piero on the bench.

The host nation has the support

but Italy create the clearest early chance.

The Germans now fully appreciate the size of their task.

As their nerves disappear,

the match begins to swing in the home side's favour.

Cannavaro marshalls the Italian defence.

Buffon is outstanding if anyone slips through.

With 16 minutes to go,

Italy re-shuffle in the search for a goal.

Alberto Gilardino replaces Luca Toni,

the match seems to be heading for extra time,

but late in the game Simone Perrotta breaks free.

Lehmann is quick to snuff out the danger.

There will be 30 more minutes.

Iaquinta replaces Camoranesi.

Klinsmann makes no more changes yet, keeping some energy in reserve.

Italy's tenacity is a sight to behold...

Gattuso a gladiator!

And there's guile to go with the guts. Pirlo can unpick any defence.

Wary, perhaps, of Germany's excellent record in

penalty shootouts, the Italians go for broke.

Gilardino couldn't be closer to ending the stalemate.

Zambrotta fires the next warning shot.

Germany are on the rack.

Lippi senses the time is right to turn the screw.

He opts to end the game with a three-man attack.

Alessandro Del Piero gets ready for the final push.

One of the country's post popular players, Del Piero has already

reached a personal milestone in 2006.

At the age of 32, he became all-time leading scorer

for Juventus in his 12th season with the club.

Winning the World Cup would surpass even that achievement.

The diminutive magician has the talent to change the game.

Germany play their last card. Klose has drawn a blank.

Oliver Neuville enters the fray.

Podolski stretches Buffon.

The ultimate winner remains anyone's guess.

29 minutes into extra-time, Italy are applying pressure.

And it's Del Piero with the corner.

Pirlo...

It's a goal!

It's Grosso! Italy surely are through to Berlin!

Grosso's celebration reminiscent of Marco Tardelli

when he scored in the 1982 final against Germany.

Even Lippi looks flustered!

But it's not finished, Germany throw bodies forward.

Italy can counter-attack.

Cannavaro...the Azzurri are moments from glory!

Gilardino...

Del Piero...

Berlin, here we come!

The tears will flow here in Dortmund from the German fans.

That devastating blow demonstrates to perfection Italy's strengths.

Powerful and indomitable in defence.

Cannavaro has the confidence and drive to carry the ball clear.

Totti sets the move in motion with an inch-perfect pass.

Gilardino uses his brain and holds up the play,

waiting for re-enforcements.

The reverse pass is exquisite,

to put Del Piero through with impeccable timing.

An ice-cool finish caps an outstanding incisive break.

From a panoramic perspective, the move can be appreciated even more.

On the right of the screen,

Del Piero is left trailing as Totti's pass frees Gilardino.

But his desire knows no bounds.

An 80-metre sprint and one touch later,

Del Piero has secured his place in World Cup history.

It's hard for the Germans to take.

Widely acknowledged as wonderful hosts,

they've been ejected from their own party.

In Munich, the second semifinal has a lot to live up to.

It's the turn of France and Portugal.

It's no surprise that Domenech should

put his faith in the same 11 players who started against Brazil.

The Portuguese are on the threshold of a new experience,

desperate to improve on the nation's

previous semifinal appearance 40 years earlier,

when the team was eliminated by the eventual champions, England.

It's a scrappy start to the game.

The most creative players are denied the space to do any damage.

For the most part, the match becalmed in midfield.

The strikers are restricted to shooting from distance.

But, just past the half hour,

France find a chink in Portugal's armour.

Malouda...clever little touch...oh,

and the referee's going to give the spot kick!

Thierry Henry taken down.

The Portuguese can't defend it,

it's always a dangerous ploy.

Thierry Henry's excursion into the box ends badly for Ricardo Carvalho.

Zinedine Zidane steps up, confronted by Ricardo,

a keeper with a track record for miraculous saves.

And it's his World Cup at the moment, Zinedine Zidane!

The penalty is all that separates the sides at the finish.

France had clung doggedly to their lead.

Portugal fall at the last again,

as the French get set for their second final.

Will look for a shot in here, it's a thrilling shot,

it's a thrilling goal from Bastian Schweinsteiger!

In Stuttgart, German smiles are restored as Klinsmann's men

compete with Portugal for third place.

Does he ever? Does he ever?

Bastian Schweinsteiger, this is your night!

The reception is euphoric as Germany triumph 3-1.

It's a small consolation for a country which has

laid on an outstanding tournament.

The ninth of July 2006 is a red letter day.

The ninth of July 2006 is a red letter day.

The stage is set for the final act. 30 teams have gone, just two remain.

The most prestigious prize in football

is gleaming for the new champions.

Football is the world's most popular sport.

The latest figures gathered by FIFA estimate 250 million people

officially play the game in more than 200 countries.

Here are 22 men who grew up dreaming of this moment.

A match to decide which is the strongest side on the planet!

Both teams that emerge from the tunnel

are unchanged from the semifinals.

The Azzurri boast three titles, Les Bleus just one.

France launch the first meaningful attack.

Henry's header releases Florent Malouda.

He's down, penalty!

Marco Materazzi tries to pull out of his tackle, but too late.

It's just seven minutes into the game,

too soon for nerves to have settled fully.

Zinedine Zidane appears to have ice running through his veins.

But Gigi Buffon has been the World Cup's best goalkeeper.

An intriguing confrontation between two exceptional players.

Zidane's penalty is astonishing,

the French captain supremely self-assured.

It's a new test for Italy,

the first time in the competition that they'd fallen behind.

In the 19th minute, the Italians seize their chance to strike back.

They trail by a goal...and they're level! It's Toni...

It's the big fella from the back, Materazzi.

It's that man again. Materazzi,

a fringe player when the World Cup began,

just keeps on hogging the headlines.

Suddenly, France are in danger of being swept aside,

Luca Toni unlucky.

The French re-emerge for the second half with renewed vigour.

Their neat passing has Italy on the retreat.

Henry's close control causes panic.

As the clock moves towards 90 minutes,

clear-cut chances are hard to come by.

The players must dredge 30 more minutes

from their exhausted muscles.

Extra time.

A path opens up for Franck Ribery.

His tiredness shows.

David Trezeguet takes his place.

In 1998, Zidane netted twice in the final as Brazil were vanquished.

Buffon prevents him from repeating the feat

with the save of his career.

Zidane's frustration is building.

In the last exchanges, with penalties looming,

words are exchanged between the France captain and Marco Materazzi.

Whatever is said, Zidane's reaction is extreme.

Fans around the world can barely believe what they're seeing.

An inglorious end to an incomparable career.

WHISTLE BLOWS

France's loss is felt even more keenly

as the match goes to a shoot-out.

Nerves of steel are required.

The penalty takers are chosen.

For the fifth penalty, Marcello Lippi has a plan.

He points to Fabio Grosso.

Despite the charged atmosphere,

the coach can still find the right words.

"Be calm - you are the last-minute man.

"Yours will be the winning touch."

They've travelled many roads to arrive here.

They began their love affair with the ball

almost as soon as they took their first steps.

Day and night, they dreamed of glory.

They honed their skills in back-yards, streets and parks.

They never ceased to believe in themselves.

Now, they have one shot to make their greatest dream come true.

CHEERING

Trezeguet hits the bar.

The rest of the spot-kicks are flawless.

Lippi's prophecy is about to be tested.

The ball which could win the World Cup is at the feet of Fabio Grosso.

CHEERING

Italy, world champions for the fourth time.

A tight-knit group.

Above all, it's a victory for team spirit.