EURO 2008 GROUP B PLAY: Germany Advances; Austria and Poland Eliminated

Group B play in EURO 2008 concluded Monday:

At Vienna:

Michael Ballack's free kick at 49 minutes provided the only goal of the match as Germany defeated Austria 1-0 to advance to the quarterfinal round, where they will next play Portugal. That's the Chelsea star pictured here celebrating with Arne Friedrich.

I will say this, though, the Austrians certainly did NOT embarrass themselves in the tournament.

At Klagenfurt, Austria:

Ivan Klasnic (pictured here mobbed by teammates) provided the only goal of the match (53') as Croatia completed a perfect sweep of their group play opponents with a 1-0 victory over Poland. The group winners will next take on Turkey in the quarterfinals.

Both Photos © Getty Images

FINAL GROUP B STANDINGS:

1. Croatia (GP: 3; GD: +3; PTS: 9)
2. Germany (GP: 3: GD+2; PTS: 6)
3. Austria (GP: 3; GD: -2; PTS: 1)
4. Poland (GP: 3; GD: -3; PTS: 1)

Croatia and Germany advanced to the quarterfinal round.