Tuesday, July 04, 2006

Germany vs Italy

On paper, it is not my idea of an interesting match.

However, Germany with Klinsmann as Coach have rediscovered how to play exciting and attacking soccer. I doubt they'll play this way against the Italians, who are quite content to sit back and hit on the break. Considering that the only goal that they've let in so far in the final was an own goal, they'll be a tough nut to crack. Ukraine rattled their crossbar in the quarters, so there's a chance that they could concede.

I don't think that Germany's defence was really tested by Argentina, who were content to sit back and defend a one goal lead, and to my great disappointed opted not to play Messi.

If Italy score first, the game will be set up quite nicely.

I think this is a one goal game, and could go to extra time & penalties if no goals are scored.

I think either team could win this. Germany have gained a lot of confidence since conceding two goals against Costa Rica, but the last time these two met (March this year), Germany lost 4-1 with almost the same squad. Let's see if things have changed.

Prediction: Italy WIN 2-1 in full time

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2 comments:

GollyGumDrops said...

I've been drinking wines from competing teams throughout the World Cup - I've been lucky with the quarter-finalists, but I think I'd plump for Italy.

Ken said...

I think Italy had the easiest game in the Quarters and that makes them a little overconfident, but apart from that game, they have had difficulties winning their matches even against teams like Australia.
Germany have home advantage and have more creativity on the bench,making them capable of turning the game around in the second half.