A method for semi-continuous casting of a strand of steel in a strand casting machine and a strand casting machine that carries out the method, the method includes pouring liquid steel into a mold while closing off the mold by a bar to form a fully solidified strand start area followed by a partially solidified strand; extracting the partially solidified strand from the mold; supporting and guiding the partially solidified strand in the strand guide; at the end of the casting, ending the pouring of liquid steel into the mold and forming a strand end; extracting the strand end from the mold; ending the extraction of the strand end; ending the secondary cooling; providing controlled or regulated cooling of the partially solidified strand until full solidification of the strand; and discharging the strand from the strand casting machine.