The game last night did not have a lot of classy football, but it was exciting. Despite their injuries and suspension problems, I thought the Turks dominated for much of the match. They were also basically fair in the way they played, which I had not expected. They effectively neutered Michael Ballack and Bastian Schweinsteiger, without resorting to rough house tactics. In truth, I thought they deserved to win. Even Philip Lahm, who has been uniformly excellent, looked out of sorts last night. He scored a fine goal at the end though, which is what most people will remember as the climax of a dramatic match.
Tonight's match should be a good one. I won't be betting either way.