"We must be better for the match against the French," said the 54-year-old Germany coach Joachim Low before the quarterfinal match began. Low also took a leap of faith by moving Lahm from midfield to his customary position at full-back and it was worth the risk. Germany won over France in 1-0 last Friday.

Although the margin of Germany's win was very slim, it is as if Joachim Low has found his best shape for the tournament. The team's game play against France was a solid-Lahm returning to right-back with Bastian Schweinsteiger, Sami khedira, and Toni Kroos. This is the first time that the three went together for the tournament.

Germany, indeed, put their best foot forward and has prepared tremendously as promised for the match. Almost all the tactics were new and even more logical. It was a rare let down for France's part, but Germany had shown an apparent advantage in the midfield zone all throughout the game that they made it seem an evident victory.

Not only was the game play solid, but Germany's teamwork as well. The combinations worked thoroughly-passing from deep midfield positions and finding France's vulnerable spots in the defense and midfield. The team will now be preparing for the semifinals.