WORLD CUP USA ’94 / THE FIRST ROUND : SPOTLIGHT : LEGS TIRE BEFORE GAMESMANSHIP

“Germany, on the evidence of two solid, grinding and efficient performances, has become the first team to virtually qualify for the second phase. The Germans still parade their gamesmanship, with Juergen Klinsmann still combining dashing athleticism with almost farcical ability to con the referees. Later on, though, I believe that it will be seen that this is a German version nearly four years older than 1990, one that looked vulnerable in defense when Spain attacked on both flanks, and one that will run out of lung power when the South Americans, or possibly even the Nigerians, prevail.”