World Cup: German midfielder Torsten Frings suspended

Via ABC online
HAMISH ROBERTSON: Now to the World Cup, where the Italians have once again been accused of dodgy dealings, this time by German commentators

Germany faces Italy in the semi-final tomorrow, with one man down following the suspension of the key German midfielder Torsten Frings.

FIFA banned Frings from the match for throwing a punch against an Argentinean player, in a brawl that erupted after the quarter-final match on Saturday that saw Germany win 4-2 on penalties.

The football governing body had initially cleared the German players from any misconduct, but reopened the investigation after the Italian media broadcast footage of the German midfielder punching another player.

As Jennifer Macey reports, German fans are outraged over the suspension, with the team more determined than ever to beat Italy and qualify for the final

JENNIFER MACEY: There's been outrage and disappointment in Germany following the suspension of Torsten Frings. The key midfielder won't be playing in the World Cup semi-final against Italy tomorrow.

FIFA (Federation Internationale de Football Association) has fined Frings and suspended him for one game, following the post-match brawl that marred the quarter-final between Germany and Argentina.

Germany's team manager is Oliver Bierhoff.

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Teddy's Opinion: It is a good news for Italy. Frings, who is not replaceable, is a key defensive midfielder in Germany.