Germany beat France to reach World Cup semifinal

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MONREAL: Germany beat France on Friday night to book their slot in the Women’s World Cup semifinals, 5-4 in the penalty kick tiebreaker after a 1-1 draw.

France had the No. 1 team in the world on the brink for much of the first 90 minutes, but Nadine Angerer’s save of 21-year-old Claire Lavogez’s penalty saw Germany emerge triumphant and remain in Montreal for Tuesday’s semifinal against the United States-China winner.

It was a game considered a de-facto final by many and it lived up to the billing. This was a fast and technically adept match that showcased the best of the women’s game, and both teams showed why so many people feel the winner of the World Cup will come out of this game.