The knockout stage of the 2006 World Cup delivered some of the most dramatic moments in tournament history. Beginning on June 24 and culminating in the final on July 9, these matches determined which nation would lift the trophy.
Round of 16
The knockout rounds opened with Germany's dominant 2-0 victory over Sweden, with goals from Lukas Podolski establishing the hosts as serious contenders. Argentina continued their impressive run, defeating Mexico 2-1 after extra time thanks to a spectacular long-range effort from Maxi Rodriguez.
England overcame Ecuador 1-0 through David Beckham's trademark free-kick, while Portugal eliminated the Netherlands 1-0 in a notoriously physical encounter that saw four red cards - earning it the nickname "The Battle of Nuremberg."
Italy dispatched Australia 1-0 with a controversial late penalty converted by Francesco Totti, while Switzerland fell to Ukraine in a goalless match decided by penalty kicks. Brazil eased past Ghana 3-0, and France produced a vintage performance to beat Spain 3-1, featuring goals from Ribery, Vieira, and Zidane.
Quarter-Finals
The quarter-final stage produced four exceptional matches that would live long in memory.
Germany vs Argentina (1-1, Germany win 4-2 on penalties)
A titanic clash in Berlin saw Miroslav Klose cancel out Ayala's header before the hosts prevailed in a tense shootout. Jens Lehmann's saved Roberto Ayala and Esteban Cambiasso penalties proved decisive.
Italy vs Ukraine (3-0)
The Azzurri delivered their most complete performance, with Luca Toni scoring twice and Zambrotta adding a spectacular goal to set up a semi-final date with Germany.
England vs Portugal (0-0, Portugal win 3-1 on penalties)
Wayne Rooney's red card for stamping on Ricardo Carvalho left England with ten men, and Portugal's superior composure in the shootout ended English hopes once again.
Brazil vs France (0-1)
The most surprising result saw defending champions Brazil eliminated by a resurgent France. Zinedine Zidane orchestrated the victory with a masterful display, including the decisive goal from Thierry Henry.
Semi-Finals
Germany vs Italy (0-2)
In Dortmund, Italy ended Germany's dream in the dying moments of extra time. Fabio Grosso's curling strike in the 119th minute and Alessandro Del Piero's follow-up seconds later left the Westfalenstadion in stunned silence.
France vs Portugal (1-0)
Zidane continued his remarkable tournament, converting a penalty to send France to the final. Portugal's Cristiano Ronaldo's attempts to influence the referee drew criticism, foreshadowing the theatrical elements of the upcoming final.
Third Place Match
Germany vs Portugal (3-1)
The hosts secured bronze with a convincing victory, Bastian Schweinsteiger scoring twice to give German fans a memorable send-off. Miroslav Klose's goal brought his tournament total to five.
The knockout rounds demonstrated the tournament's tactical evolution, with defensive organization and set-piece excellence often deciding matches. Seven of the eight knockout matches ended with two goals or fewer, highlighting the fine margins at the elite level.
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