RIM didn't immediately respond to questions about whether it will return to the table with a friendly counterbid.

Don't be fright, it is not so impossible as it seems.

Germany regeared for the second half: same shape, more control. Mexico had lost some of their vim. And before long the game had turned on its head, with Germany able to keep the ball now, Kroos hitting his range, and Mexico less adept at seizing possession, unable to spring forward with such gusto.

The nights were nippingly cold.