Germany has survived a huge test in the FIFA World Cup and is through to the quarterfinals after defeating Algeria 2-1 in the elimination match today.
The three-time champion lacked urgency throughout the 90 minutes and frequently looked rattled as an enterprising Algeria wasted a succession of chances in an open and exciting encounter before Andre Schurrle finished from close range early in the first additional period.
Ozil’s late close-range strike ensured that Germans progress to the quarters.
Germany is into the last eight for the 17th time in 18 World Cup appearances.
Earlier this morning, France beat Nigeria 2-0 to reach the World Cup quarterfinals.
France, who is the 2006 runners up, did not make it past the group stage in South Africa four years ago but they appear to be much more united as a squad in this tournament.
Germany will now play France in the quarterfinals at 4am on Saturday.
In other quarterfinal matches, Brazil will take on Colombia at 8am Saturday followed by Netherlands against Costa Rica at 8am Sunday.
Meanwhile, in the last two elimination matches tomorrow, Argentina will play Switzerland at 4am while Belgium will play USA at 8am.
The winners from these two matches will face off in a quarterfinal match at 4am on Sunday.
