Voller singles out Ballack for praise

A second half goal from Ballack was enough to ensure Germany's progression to Sunday's final in Japan and end brave South Korea's dreams.

Voller was proud of his side's performance after matching the Korean's energy, but the former World Cup winner admitted his joy was tinged with sadness for Ballack, who will miss the final after picking up his second yellow card of the knock-out stages.

"In the dug-out there was restrained joy," said Voller. "The players were very tired indeed. They had ran a lot just like the South Koreans.

"First of all I must console Michael Ballack. Unfortunately he is banned for the final. He had to foul the South Korean and he did that. Not everyone would have - that was magnificent.

"He was really sad and weeped. Michael was not fully fit but he gave his all to the team once again.

"What he achieved today was sensational. The whole of Germany should take their hat off to him."

It is Germany's seventh World Cup final appearance in total as they look to take football's ultimate prize for the fourth time.

Germany will face either Brazil or Turkey in Sunday's final and if Voller can guide his side to success he will become only the third man in history to win the World Cup as a player and manager.