Javier Mascherano of Argentina challenges Miroslav Klose of German

World Cup: Germany beats Argentina, 4-0

CAPE TOWN, South Africa — Thomas Mueller scored on an early header and Miroslav Klose added two goals as Germany routed Argentina 4-0 for a semifinal spot in the World Cup, sending star striker Lionel Messi and coach Diego Maradona home.

Klose’s tapped the ball in from close range in the 68th minute for the 13th goal of his World Cup career, after being set up Lukas Podolski.

Friedrich’s goal in the 74th minute put the Germans comfortably ahead.

Thomas Mueller gave Germany in the third minute when he headed in a Bastian Schweinsteiger free kick after Podolski was fouled on the left. It was Mueller’s fourth goal of the tournament.

Argentina had looked more dangerous after the break, with Carlos Tevez, Gonzalo Higuain and Angel Di Maria all having shots saved. But the Argentines fell off a bit after Klose’s goal.

After Mueller’s third-minute goal Saturday, Miroslav Klose celebrated his 100th international game with a tap-in from short range in the 68th minute. He then scored the 14th goal of his World Cup career in the 89th minute, somersaulting in celebration.

Arne Friedrich scored Germany’s other goal.

Germany will play the winner of the quarterfinal between Paraguay and Spain.