Ballack rues final misery

Euro 2008 defeat adds to Germany captain's despair

By James Dall   Last updated: 30th June 2008

Ballack rues final misery

Ballack: Final woe

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Germany captain Michael Ballack could not hide his disappointment after a season of runners-up medals came to a close.

Ballack shrugged off a calf injury to feature against Spain in the Euro 2008 final on Sunday but was unable to inspire his team-mates as Luis Aragones' side claimed a deserved 1-0 triumph.

The defeat concluded a difficult campaign for Ballack, who suffered heartache with Chelsea in the Carling Cup and UEFA Champions League finals, and lost out in the race for the Premier League title.

The 31-year-old has admitted Germany were outplayed by an impressive Spain outfit at the Ernst Happel Stadion, but is looking to pick himself up ahead of next term with Chelsea.

Ballack said: "We had a great tournament, but made one mistake too many. We were lacking power against a great Spanish team, we couldn't keep up with them.

"It's always disappointing to lose a final, but we played a great championship. We wanted more, but we couldn't deliver. Still, we can be proud."