Germany's opponent in the quarter-final was Croatia. This game was surely one of Klinsmann's most unforgettable match
because he was injured in this match! In fact, Klinsmann played well in this game and scored his
third goal in this tournament from the penalty spot in the 20th minute. However, after he was tackled and fouled several
times during the game, he felt great pain in his calf muscle and eventually he could not sustain and had to leave the
field in the 40th minute (see photo on the right). Although Germany finally defeated Croatia by 2-1, Klinsmann must miss the semi-final against England, the host. According
to the spokesman of Germany, Klinsmann's injury was so serious that even if Germany could defeat England, the chance
for Klinsmann to be able to play in the final was only 0.5% (ie almost impossible). This was an obvious setback for
Klinsmann because it was always his dream to lead Germany to win a major competition. When he told the press about how
he would deal with his injury, he nearly cried. He told the press that he would stay in England and support his teammates
on the bench and he urged the team to face the difficulty positively. In fact, the absence of Klinsmann greatly weakened
Germany's attack and this was reflected from the fact that they could only manage to secure a 1-1 draw against England
after 120 minutes and then defeat England in the penalty shootout.
The other finalist was Czech Republic, a familiar opponent because Germany and Czech Republic were in the same group
in group stage. Now, it was the time to wait for miracle to cure Klinsmann's injury. Due to Klinsmann's strong
determination to play and positive attitude, miracle really came just one hour before the start of the final match --
Klinsmann was permitted by the team doctor to play in the final!.
The final was a tough match for Germany because Czech Republic had learnt a lesson from their defeat in group stage.
They even led the game by a penalty in the 59th minute. Germany fought a goal back in the 73th minute by Bierhoff,
the super-substitute. The game then ended 1-1 in normal time. In the 5th minute of extra time, Klinsmann played
a great pass to Bierhoff who turned it into the golden gold. This golden gold ended EURO 96 and
earned Germany the trophy. Klinsmann cried after this sensational victory.
At last, Klinsmann accomplished his dream to lead Germany to win the long-awaited EURO 96 and lifted up the trophy
(photo on the right) in the mood of joy.
Congratulation!
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Klinsmann was injured!
Klinsmann lifting up the trophy of EURO 96!
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