Kahn plays down inspirational role

Germany captain Oliver Kahn has played down his role in inspiring the three-time champions to the brink of yet another world crown.

Kahn has lived up to his reputation as the world’s best goalkeeper with four clean sheets in five games to help the Germans reach the World Cup semi-finals, where they will face South Korea tomorrow.

But the 33-year-old claimed: ‘‘You know what I would be without my 10 team-mates? I would be absolutely nothing.

‘‘I will do anything to make my country successful, anything - but it is not only about me.

‘‘I have a great fighting crew in front of me and as much depends on the other players.’’

Midfielder Michael Ballack, who will join Kahn at Bayern Munich next season, emphasised the importance of the Germans’ on-field leader between the posts.

‘‘Oliver makes wonderful, world class saves in every match,’’ said the 25-year-old.

‘‘The semi-final won’t worry him. We are just happy he’s on our side.’’

Kahn was characteristically influential in their quarter-final success, repelling everything the United States could throw at them.

His performance impressed none more so than his opposite number Brad Friedel.

The Blackburn keeper said: ‘‘He was outstanding, but then he always is. Germany will need him at his very best now in the semi-final.

‘‘He played fantastically against us, he was the difference. They have only conceded one goal in this tournament and that’s because of Kahn.’’

Germany will certainly face a daunting examination of their courage and desire when they are thrown into the lion’s den of Seoul tomorrow.

They will not have to just contend with Guus Hiddink’s explosive, all-action team - but also the fanatical Red Devils packed inside the 60,000-capacity stadium.

No Asian team has ever reached this stage, and a World Cup final in Yokohama on Sunday against either Brazil or Turkey was surely beyond even their wildest dreams.

But now Germany must confront the tide of red which is driving a team of unknowns to glory - and that puts Kahn in the firing line.

But Germany coach Rudi Voller realises his side’s hopes are in safe hands, even against a side which has already beaten Poland, Portugal, Italy and Spain.

‘‘We have always known that we will need a fantastic Oliver Kahn to be successful here, and so far we have had just that, a fantastic Oliver Kahn,’’ said Voller.

‘‘Without him and his very best form, we cannot win.’’