These two teams have produced some classic matches
at major finals over the years from the 4-3 Italy victory in the 1970 World Cup
semi-final, to the unforgettable 2-0 Italy victory in the 2006 World Cup semi-final.
However tonight I’m pretty sure that record will be
of little comfort to the Azzurri as they trudge of the pitch in defeat. (I’m
not saying they don’t have a chance, but I expect them to lose)
Germany have been a consistent presence at this
stage of proceedings time and time again, in particular the current generation
have made it to at least the semi-finals at the last 4 times of asking, surely its
only a matter of time before they walk away with the top prize.
At this tournament they have been the team to watch,
and many now place them ahead of Spain as favourites.
If they want a chance of making it third time lucky
against Spain they will have to see off a resolute Italian side that will be
feeling the effects of their excursions against England.
But as long as Germany do the complete opposite of
England i.e. mark Pirlo and make an effort to attack then I can’t see them slipping
up, they just don’t do that (I wonder what it must be like watching your national
team knowing they won’t choke)
I also hope both teams serve up a better game than
last night, but penalties are always exciting whoever’s involved.
It was also interesting that Ronaldo stayed back and
sent a defensive midfielder and two centre backs up to take a spot-kick before
him, very strange.
Despite what was said of Spain’s performance I still
expect them to make it trophy no.3 come Sunday night, they’ve shown they are
capable of producing when it matters most and I still can’t see past them.
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