One step too far for Turkey

Germany progressed to the Final of Euro 2008 after beating Turkey 3-2 in a thrilling game in Basle. They face Spain to win the trophy.

Turkey who had defied the odds to reach the semi final put up a truly spirited performance despite being ravaged by injuries and suspensions. They took the lead after 22 minutes when Ugur Boral tucked away a rebound off the bar.

The goal sparked Germany into life and five minutes later Bastian Schweinsteiger met a Lucas Podolski cross with the deftest of finishes to level the game.

The Turks however, continued to press, harry and frustrate the Germans and were the better team throughout the remainder of the first half.

The pattern of Turkish dominance continued after the interval as Germany looked a shadow of the team who had played so well against Portugal in the Quarter final although they were unlucky not to be given a penalty when Lahm was clearly brought down in the box.

In the 79^th minute a howler by the Turkish keeper Rushtu Recber gifted Miroslav Klose a goal. The keeper decided to come for a cross but got nowhere near it and the German striker was more than happy to see the ball in the back of the net.

But Turkey who had developed a reputation of being the comeback kings of this tournament with numerous fight backs did it again. In the 86^th minute after brilliant play down the right wing by Sabri, he crossed the ball to the near post for Semih to slot home.

As it seemed the match was heading into extra time, the Germans struck again in added on time after Thomas Hitzlesperger had played through Lahm who made no mistake and fired the ball over Rushtu and into the top corner to send the German fans into delirium and the Turks into pure agony.

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