Ballack's accurate cross in the 80th minute helped German top striker Miraslov Klose to head in the equalizer.

In the penalty shootout following a 1-1 tie after extra time, Ballack became the second to come to the spot and scored in full confidence.

Hosts Germany beat Argentina 4-2 on penalty shootout and advanced to the semifinals.

Ballack, 29, the midfield maestro of Bayern Munich and Germany, is one of the few German players that the experts unanimously believe to be 'world class'. He will play for English Premier League champions Chelsea next season.

Ballack has consistently excelled in a German shirt. His performances at the 2002 FIFA World Cup Korea/Japan were exemplary, leading his team into the final almost single-handedly.

After spells with Chemnitzer FC, FC Kaiserslautern and Bayer Leverkusen, the "most prolific midfielder in the world", arrived at record German championship winners Bayern Munich in 2002.

In 2004/5, Ballack was instrumental in Bayern winning the league and cup double. His outstanding endeavours were recognised with his third successive player of the year award, leaving the midfielder just one behind the "Kaiser" Franz Beckenbauer, who earned the accolade on four occasions.

The laid-back German captain's motto has always been: "Don't take everything so seriously." But he really did a good job on the pitch.