Day 23

With just a day left on the charts for the grand finale, the fight for third place was on between Germany and Portugal. A great game to watch for all and for the German fans, this could be their moment in this world cup to enjoy and savour. As the game started, Germany had a sense of urgency and had the better of the strikes than their opponents. It was only time which was separating Germany from eventual victory and Schweinsteiger soon gave then the lead when he cut in from the left and sent a swerving shot past the Portuguese custodian, Ricardo. Germany got their second soon with an own goal by Petit - from a Schweinsteiger free kick, and with 12 minutes of normal time remaining, Schweinsteiger capped his fantastic performance with his second of the game - another swerving strike from outside the box which left Ricardo with no choice but to pick the ball out of the net. Scolari brought on Figo to add more power and skill to their attack but there was nothing that they can do to get one past Kahn, who was having a memorable night between the posts. But Portugal's second half performance deserved a goal and they did get it with 2 minutes from time, Figo sent in a beautiful cross and a diving header by Nuno Gomes finished the game at 3-1. After the game, there were scenes of celebration as the Germans made their fans proud and proudly waved their medals to the appreciating crowd. Khan received a rousing applause (even in the game for every ball he gathered!) in what could be his final international game for Germany, and it could very well be the final International game for Figo as well. The old warhorses are leaving, giving room for young aspiring players who could be tomorrow's heroes. Schweinsteiger proved he was one of them. On the podium, a few smiles and pleasantries exchanged between Klinsmann and Platini brought back old memories, but this was Germany's night and they were out to make it last forever.
Germany 3-1 Portugal
56-Schweinsteiger(GER), 61og-Petit(POR), 78-Schweinsteiger(GER)