Carson, CA (My Sportsbook) - As the rest of her teammates get ready for the 2003 World Cup final against Sweden on Sunday, Germany goalkeeper Silke Rottenberg is still bruised and battered from the team's upset win over the defending champion U.S. side in last weekend's semifinal match.

But those bruises are a big part of the best feeling Rottenberg has ever had as a soccer player.

"That was my kind of game," Rottenberg told FIFA's website. "I'm mentally strong, and I have 1,000-percent concentration when I need it."

The 31-year-old 'keeper made six crucial saves in the match including a diving cover on a Mia Hamm breakaway that would have certainly resulted in a first- half equalizer.

Rottenberg was so excited after her performance and team's victory that sleep was not a concern.

"I haven't slept all night, I'm only just beginning to realize we're through to the final," Rottenberg said.

According to many of the media pundits, Germany had no chance to unseat the powerful U.S.

"Before the game, we vowed to get a result," Rottenberg said. "We were totally fired up, especially after being written off by the media. We took the field full of belief, because we knew our opponents were only human after all. And we won 3-0, it's a dream come true."

Going into the contest, Germany had averaged a staggering five goals per game. In the semifinal, however, it was the defense led by its wily netminder that stepped into the spotlight.

"I felt in good form as soon as we started warming up," said Rottenberg. "And the longer the game went on, the more I was certain I'd keep a clean sheet. What counts is making a good first save."

Germany advanced to the final for the second time in their history. At Sweden 1995, a powerful Norway team defeated the Germans, 2-0 for the championship.

This time around, Rottenberg is confident her teammates will hoist the Cup for the first time ever.

"We've grown together into a fantastic team, and I'm including those who don't always get to play," said the 'keeper. "Our substitutes are worth as much as the 11 on the field."

Rottenberg continued: "I always wanted to meet Sweden because we're better equipped to cope with their style than Canada's. But they're a very good side."

Sweden scored two unanswered second half goals to upend the Canadians, 2-1 in the other semifinal match. They have a great passing attack, but it's certainly nothing that Rottenberg and her teammates haven't seen.

"It's going to be difficult for both sides," said the 'keeper. "It'll be decided by who gets going quickest. But it'll be a great fight."

According to the bruises on Rottenberg's body, she has already been in a great fight and has come away the unanimous winner.