Mario Gomez, a figure of tortured dejection in the wake of Bayern Munich’s Champions League final defeat against Chelsea, rescued Germany as the second favourites edged past Portugal.

The Bayern Munich striker was just about to be substituted after a less-than-vintage performance — individually and collectively — when he won the game for the three-time champions with a majestic header 18 minutes from time.

Denmark’s upset victory over Holland earlier provided added incentive for both these sides to put down an early marker.

Super Mario: Mario Gomez celebrates after netting the only goal of the game

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