Hummels shines in Germany win

When Germany fans think back on Mats Hummels' performance against France, most will probably focus on the goal which gave Germany the lead after 13 minutes. The Dortmund center-back showed why he is one of Germany's most offensively productive defenders, outmuscling Raphael Varane to head home a Toni Kroos free kick.

"Sometimes, it's not so bad to be as heavy as I am," a modest Hummels said after the match. "I'm not that fleet-of-foot, but I can throw my weight around," added the defender with a grin.

Against Les Bleus in the heat and tension of a World Cup quarterfinal in Brazil, he certainly did that. Perhaps more impressive than his goal was the way Hummels handled in-from French striker Karim Benzema, himself no lightweight. The center back made three crucial blocks, including one from close range 14 minutes from time. Ultimately, Germany secured their win thanks to Hummels' robust and resolute performance.

It's by no means a given that the 190-centimeter-tall defender should draw praise for his performances in national dress. Long regarded as one of the top center-backs in Europe, Hummels has often been criticized - rightly - for his hesitation early on in his international career.

Against France though, he was a rock. While Les Bleus were repeatedly able to penetrate Germany's box, Hummels was always on hand to disrupt their crosses and one-twos. This type of performance, one that emanated calmness and assuredness, suggests the 25-year-old is making the transition from young talent to veteran mainstay.

"Germany were more experienced than we were and that's why they were able to hold onto their 1-0 lead," French coach Didier Deschamps said in defeat. Those words of praise applied to Hummels more than anyone.

Germany now progress to the semi-finals as their dream of winning the 2014 World Cup looms ever closer. It's become clear that Jogi Löw's men don't have the offensive nous to blow away quality opponents, but if Hummels plays the way he did on Friday, they'll be defensively tough to beat.