Players of both teams clashed on the pitch after Germany beat Argentina on penalties to reach the semi-finals of the World Cup on Friday.

German team manager Oliver Bierhoff appeared to be at the centre of the fracas and and incurred the wrath of the Argentina players in the seconds that followed their exit from the competition.

FIFA officials and referee Lubos Michel were all caught up in the melee and punches and kicks appeared to be thrown in chaotic scenes which went on for approximately 90 seconds in front of a 72,000 crowd.