While the Germans easily dispatched Sweden in the round of 16, they needed penalty kicks to fend off Argentina in the quarterfinals.The Germans lost to the ultimate champions Italy when they crushed the host country's title dreams by scoring both goals of their 2-0 triumph in extra time of the semifinals.
To their credit, Klinsmann's camp bounced back to take the third-place game, 3-1, over Portugal. In addition, with five goals, Klose picked up the Golden Boot award for the World Cup's leading scorer.
During their last World Cup, Germany topped Group D at South Africa in 2010. The placement set the stage for Germany to thump England, 4-1, in their first knockout match and then take out the Argentines yet again with a 4-0 rout in the quarterfinals.
The history seemed to repeat itself as Germany once again fell victim to facing the eventual champions in the semifinals, as Spain beat them 1-0. Despite falling short, new manager Joachim Low led his team to another third-place conclusion by defeating Uruguay, 3-2. Similar to 2006, German midfielder Thomas Muller claimed the Golden Boot with five goals and three assists.
Still at the helm, Low coached Germany to a first-place finish in Group G at this summer's World Cup. Although they required extra time to oust a feisty Algeria squad, 2-1, in the round of 16, they have now advanced to the quarterfinals in an amazing 16 straight World Cups.
Now Germany will face the host nation Brazil in the semi-final and will look to cross the hurdle this time around and achieve the ultimate glory.
