Deutscher Mannshaft vs. Socceroos

Germany and Australia squared off at gorgeous Moses Mabhiba Stadium in Durban. I can't think of a nicer, more fan-friendly stadium that I have ever been to, and we were fortunate to have great seats too (thanks, FIFA lottery). The archway along the top of the stadium is designed to evoke the post-Apartheid South African national flag--in particular the fork-shaped green part.

Here are some shots. From afar...

As a sand castle...

The roof from the inside...
The crowd from our seats...
This section tried to make the shape of a soccer ball with black and white plastic bags. It probably looks better from another angle on television...
The atmosphere was loud and full of anticipation, with two proud beer-drinking nations cheering on their teams in a full-throat roar. Here's a little video I took to illustrate the buzz in the crowd when the teams walked out for introductions. Lots of vuvuzelas!...

After the third minute, when Australia failed to convert a golden opportunity in the mouth of the German goal, Germany took over. Even without injured Ehrenspielerfuhrer Michael Ballack, Philip Lahm and Lukas Podolski controlled the midfield and carved up the Australian defense with surgical precision. They were so good that even the aging*, washed-up striker Miroslav Klose got numerous opportunities and crashed through for a gorgeous header goal on a perfect ball from Lahm (note: updated video)...

Ultimately, the scoreboard said Germany 4, Australia 0, but the damage could have been much worse. It was a privilege to watch a team play so well.

* He's a day older than Shelby, my little sister. Don't I feel old.