Germany defender Per Mertesacker admitted he was suffering from exhaustion after the energy-sapping 2-1 victory over Algeria which edged his side into the World Cup quarter-finals.
Despite going into the second round tie as strong favourites last night the Germans lacked creativity and guile in the final third of the pitch and were taken to extra-time by the underdogs.
Towering Arsenal centre-half Mertesacker admitted it took its toll, and now he and his colleagues must hope they recover in time for Friday’s last-eight showdown with fellow heavyweights France in Rio.
He said on Twitter: “Quarter-finals. Exhausted, tired and yes … proud! Thanks for your support and believing in this team.”
Algeria came close to exploiting their opponents’ high line on a number of occasions during normal time, forcing goalkeeper Manuel Neuer to frequently leave his penalty area and sweep up behind his defenders.
Germany finally took the lead less than two minutes into extra-time, with Chelsea attacker Andre Schurrle finding the back of the net with a cool finish from close range.
With time running out and the Algerians pushing forward in search of an equaliser, Arsenal playmaker Mesut Ozil fired home to double the lead.
A fine strike from Abdelmoumene Djabou seconds later gave Germany a few jitters, but they held on to secure safe passage to the next stage.