Beckenbauer mystified by lifeless Germany

Franz Beckenbauer blamed a “lifeless” first half for Germany’s Euro 2012 semi-final exit to Italy.

Mario Balotelli’s double before half-time stunned Joachim Loew’s side, who had gone into the match as favourites after winning their past 14 competitive matches.

Mesut Ozil pulled a goal back from the penalty spot in injury-time of an improved second half, but it came too late to leave Germany without a major title since Euro 96.

“It hurts a lot. Too bad. Too bad. I thought 16 years after winning Euro 96 in England that we were again ready to win a title,” former Germany coach and captain Beckenbauer wrote in Bild yesterday.

“Something is still missing. Now we will have to wait another two years for a title shot.

“The first-half performance was a mystery to me after we performed so confidently in the four games beforehand.

“The first 45 minutes were deeply disappointing. That was not the true German team.”

Beckenbauer, 66, lamented the “curse” Italy have over Germany at major tournaments but believes reaching the semi-final was still a good achievement for a young team.

“I think we have too much respect (for Italy). The talk about the curse of Italy seemed to paralyse the players,” he said.