So, 1 out of 4 predictions it is. Who said football was predictable? Germany and Spain are predictably in the semi-finals, but who could have eviasaged Turkey and Russia taking their place alongside them? Well, me actually. My cheeky pound on Russia to win the tournament is looking rather sweet indeed.
Anyhow, I digress. There's a semi-final preview to write!
Germany vs Turkey
Ah, The Germans. Never write them off? I certainly did. But here they are, in the semi-finals, and seemingly hitting their peak at the right time.
Against Portugal it was Germany back to their best. Tactically they got it spot on, with the impressive Ballack supporting Klose to great effect, with the luxury of two holding players behind him. Undoubtedly the star of the show, Ballack was in imperious form throughout the match. Too physically strong for the Portugese, and incisive going forward, this was the Germany we all expected to see, but didnt as they lumbered through their group unconvincingly.
Concerns over their defence remain, with the big German centre-backs looking vulnerable to pace and movement, but the Germans resillience under pressure can not be denied.
Now Turkey. What else is there to say? If you could win tournaments on character and spirit alone, Turkey would be favourites. In front for only 2 minutes in the whole competition, their place in the semi-final is testament to their never say die attitude. Faith Terim has installed such belief in his players, and for that he has to be commended.
However, suspensions and injuries will surely take their toll. Talisman Nihat is now out injured for the tournament, and the impressive Tuncay and Arda find themselves suspended for the semi final. Turkey have been a revelation so far in Euro 2008, but beating the Germans is surely too much to ask.
Backs to the wall for the Turks here. They're heavily depleted on the attacking front with Nihat and others out, and I feel this is one step too far for them. Where Croatia were wasteful, Germany will be clinical and ruthless. Though I still have concerns over their defence, I cant see Turkey posing too many problems. Another European final for the Germans, who are hitting form at just the right time. Why are people suprised?
3-0 Germany.
Spain vs Russia
So, the curse has been lifted for the Spanish. The quarter final stage was a big mental obstacle for Spain to overcome, and they've done it. Though their quarter final win against the Italians was far from a classic, the Spanish shown perseverance and mental strength, qualities that had been so lacking in recent years. Resolve from the Spanish, who would have thought it? No doubt about it, Spain will be filled with belief and confidence they can go all the way now.
Other qualities were lacking however. The passing game that was so effective against Russia failed the Spanish, with a lack of movement and conviction in their play. Improvement is surely needed, though you feel the Russians will be more open than the defensive and unambitious Italians, who to their credit stifled the Spanish to great effect.
And finally, the Russians, and Guus Hiddink is at it again. After transforming the fortunes of South Korea and Australia, Hiddink has made Russia into a real force. His young team outplayed and outclassed the Dutch, and will be a big test for Spain.
Their movement and the way they move the ball is something to admire, as is the fluidity and flexibility to their play, with full-backs bombing forward and midfielders filling the gaps they leave at the back. The Russians have improved with each game, and with Andrei Arshavin pulling the strings and looking fresh after missing the first two games, Russia look strong. And with Hiddink at the helm, anything is possible.
One thing's for sure, there will be no repeat of the 4-1 drubbing that Spain gave the Russians in their Group C opener. Russia have improved greatly since then, and key players have come back into the fold. Spain, however, have never reached the heights of that game, and need to find some form. With both teams favouring attacking football, this game could be open, and this will work in Spain's favour I feel, with Spain free to pass and probe at will, giving Torres and Villa the service they so desire.
2-1 to Spain.
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Once again, agree, disagree...feel free to leave a comment.
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