We can still be proud, says Germany's Klose (Reuters) Updated: 2006-07-05 09:36
DORTMUND, July 4 - Striker Miroslav Klose said Germany could still be
proud of their side despite a last-gasp 2-0 defeat by Italy in the World Cup
semi-final on Tuesday.
"I think we can still be proud of this team. We have a lot of young players
and I think we have a future," said Klose after Germany conceded two late goals
in extra time.
"Both sides had shots on goal and chances to decide the match, but my
compliments to the Italians. They played hard and scored a nice goal," he added.
Italy went ahead with just over a minute left through fullback Fabio Grosso
and then added a second goal almost immediately thanks to substitute Alessandro
Del Piero.
"We had good chances to score," said Germany left back Philipp Lahm. "It's
bitter to lose so close to the end of the match. We didn't lack any freshness.
"We were still fit, everyone could still run.
"There were two very good teams out there. There weren't many chances. It was
a balanced match. We had our chances too.
"It's hard to find an explanation. We're naturally very disappointed. There
is a lot of disappointment to lose here in Dortmund against Italy."
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