Germany vs Italy Preview

In 1970 these two sides met in a game that is often dubbed as the ’Game of the Century’ where Italy saw off Germany 4-3 (AET) in the 1970 World Cup semi-final. Italy won then and history on the side of the Azurri having never lost against the Germans in a competitive game (three wins and four draws) and unbeaten in their last five against Germany. Prandelli’s men are 4/1 (Bluesquare/888 sport) for the victory, while the 90 minute draw (the result of a recent friendly between the two) is a best priced 5/2 (Stan James). Germany though are four wins from four games and bookmakers make them 13/14 (32 Red) to book their place in the final and make it 16 wins from their last 16 competitive games

The first goalscorer market is headed by Mario Gomez at 11/2 (BetVictor/Stan James/Coral) while Miroslav Klose is 6/1 (general). The Germans have a number of forward options having used six players in their last two games and team-news could be crucial before placing these bets. In midfield they have looked more settled with Khederia, Ozil and Schweinsteiger always starting and Khedira who scored in the last game is 20/1 (general) to score again. The highest priced Italian is Mario Balotelli 10/1 (bet365/BetVictor/Stan James) while regular strike partner Antonio Cassano is 11/1 (bet365/BetVictor/Stan James). Andrea Pirlo was the star of the show in the quarter-finals against England and takes a number of set-pieces and could appeal to some at 18/1 (general) to grab the opener.

This game pitches the best attack in the Euros (Germany with nine goals) against the team with the second best defence (Italy have conceded just two goals). The bookmakers make the 1-0 Germany scoreline the favourite at 11/2 (BetVictor) and then the 1-1 draw at 6/1 (general) and the 0-0 draw at 7/1 (general). Those who think the Italians can sneak the game 1-0 can get a standout 11/1 (BetVictor).

Those looking for a play in the HT/FT full market should take note of the fact that 13 of the last 16 semi-finals of major international tournaments have been drawn at Half Time. The Draw HT/Draw FT and the Draw HT/Germany FT are both 4/1 (general). If you think Germany will have too much class you can get 21/10 (general) on Germany HT/ Germany FT.

Those worried about the threat of extra time/penalties can play the ’team to qualify’ market. Italy have failed to make the final only twice from their ten previous semi-final appearances in international competitons and they are 11/5 (Stan James) to qualify for the final. Germany have made the final from 11 of their previous 17 semi-final appearances and are 4/9 (32 Red) to make the final here.

Those thinking that the Italians will once more go to penalties (like they did in the quarter-finals with England) can get 11/1 (general) an Italians victory on penalties, Germany are also 11/1 (bet365/boylesports/Bodog) for a penalties victory.

Those expecting the tight game can play the under 2.5 goals at 11/17 (32red) or might be best served to take the 0-0 score in the correct half-time score market which is priced at 13/8 (paddy Power).

If the game has half the excitement of the famous game from 1970 in Mexico then Football fans are in for a treat in this second semi-final.

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27/06/2012     © Frixo 2026