SOGWIPO (South Korea), June 22: Germany have lodged a protest with FIFA over striker Oliver Neuville’s yellow card in Friday’s 1-0 quarterfinal win over the United States, the German Foootball Association (DFB) said on Saturday.

The DFB told soccer’s world governing body that television footage showed Neuville had been booked for a foul committed by substitute Jens Jeremies.

Neuville was shown the yellow card along with U.S. captain Claudio Reyna in the 68th minute after some pushing in the area as the teams waited for a free-kick to be taken.

Hamann doubtful

Midfielder Dietmar Hamann is doubtful for the semifinal against South Korea on Tuesday because of a knee injury.

Coach Rudi Voeller said Hamann, who missed training on Saturday, damaged ligaments in his right knee during Friday’s 1-0 quarter-final victory over the United States.

“He twisted a ligament,” Voeller said. “He stayed at the hotel to receive treatment. We hope he can be fit for Tuesday.”

The 28-year-old is vital to Voeller’s plans and his contribution in a defensive role at the centre of midfield would be sorely missed.

Hamann, who has played all Germany’s matches in the tournament, would probably be replaced by Jens Jeremies if he was ruled out.

All the other players in Germany’s squad took part in Saturday’s light training session at their camp in this South Korean holiday island.

Voeller said defender Christoph Metzelder was still suffering from a sore right ankle but could brave the pain to play.—Reuters