Friedrich spares German blushes

Bulgaria 2-2 Germany

Völler's blushes spared
Hertha BSC Berlin defender and debutant Arne Friedrich, a second-half substitute, spared coach Rudi Völler's blushes in the 57th minute by unleashing a 25-metre shot through a crowd of players which went past Bulgaria goalkeeper Zdravko Zdravkov to salvage a draw.

Berbatov opener
Bulgaria had more than matched Germany for much of the contest, twice taking the lead. Striker Dimitar Berbatov gave the home side the lead in the 21st minute after a cross from captain Krassimir Balakov.

Precise Ballack
Germany midfield player Michael Ballack scored from the penalty spot to level at 1-1 just two minutes later after Zdravkov brought down forward Miroslav Klose.

Second penalty
A second penalty five minutes after half-time saw Bulgaria go 2-1 up as Balakov converted from the spot after Berbatov had his shirt tugged by his Bayer 04 Leverkusen team-mate Carsten Ramelow. Then Friedrich struck to salvage a draw for the Germans.

Lithuania next up
Germany begin their EURO 2004™ qualifying campaign with an away match in Lithuania on 7 September, while Bulgaria travel to meet Belgium on the same day.