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So, after a quite frankly magnificent tournament, Euro 2008 is coming to an end, and its had everything. We've had the style and flair from the Portugese and Spanish, and the astonishing comebacks and never say die attitude from Turkey, which was pure theatre at its finest. The decline of the 2006 World Cup finalists France and Italy was something to behold, as was the emergence of Russia as a real force in football. Certain players have come of age and made their mark, whereas certain players have been found wanting when it matters most. Not that I'll mention any names.....such as Florent Malouda.
One things for sure, the tournament has been brilliant for football fans. In an era where pragmatism reigns supreme in football, its been refreshing to see open games with goals - and plenty of them. And the two teams contesting the final have seen to that, with 22 goals between them, and 11 goals each. Which quite conviniently leads me to..
Germany vs Spain - THE FINAL
And what a final it is. Two of the biggest teams in Europe, and a final many predicted before the tournament even began. So who's going to win it?
Firstly the Germans, who find themselves in the final for the 5th time. Inconsistent would describe Germany so far in the tournament, but once again they find themselves in the final after a topsy tervy game against Turkey, in a game where their defensive frailties were once again brought to the forefront.
Make no mistake, this Germany team is vulnerable at the back, especially to pace and movement, something which Spain will look to exploit. However, in midfield they are strong and physical, and they will look to win this battle in the middle of the park, much like they did against the Portugese.
Going forward, they wont create too many chances, but the chances they do create tend to be put away. Germany are clinical in that final third, and Spain will have to be weary.
Key players? Germany have many big match players, but no more so than Michael Ballack. The Germany skipper is leading by example, and runs the German midfield. A good passer, hard to pick up, and always there if you need a goal - Ballack is certainly key for the Germans.
There are others, of course. Philip Lahm's attacking instincts from left full-back will have to be watched carefully, and the pairing of Lukas Podolski and Miroslav Klose are always dangerous in the final third.
Now the Spanish, and they finally have their final after long last. Much like the Germans, they have been inconsistent, but mental strength and perseverance has taken them to the final. But unlike Germany, they shown the class and flair that we knew they had in their semi-final against Russia, and that will give them confidence.
For me, there is no obvious weakness in the Spanish side, apart from their predictability. They can only play one way, and if Germany try and stifle the Spanish, a reluctance to go direct could mean Spain will be in for a frustrating night.
However, when Spain turn it on, its hard to stop them. The inclusion of Fabregas has given them added creativity and guile, though people shouldnt discount the input of Andreas Iniesta, who is also coming into great form.
And of course, the pace of Fernando Torres up front will cause the German defence numerous problems, and they will have to be on their guard.
For me though, Marcos Senna is the unsung hero of the Spanish side. A fantastic insurance policy for the rest of Spain's attack to express themself, Senna kept Arshavin so quiet we barely knew he was there. His duel with Michael Ballack promises to be fascinating.
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For me, this comes down to mentality. Germany's performances so far have been inconsistent to say the least, but their mental strength can never be underestimated. They know how to win big matches, such is their efficency and ruthlessness. Having said that, Spain have shown some mental strength of their own in this tournament, and after years of imploding, have finally made a final. Can they go one step further and win the tournament?
Yes, in my opinion. If Spain play like they can, it should be Luis Aragones' side lifting the Trophy come Sunday night. For me, Spain can only beat themselves.
Spain 2-1 (in ET)
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Well that's me for a week..I'll be watching the final in sunny Bulgaria. Jealous? You should be.
COME ON THE SPAIN!
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