Germany vs Italy - Semi-final Preview

Germany and Italy clash in the semi-final of Euro 2012 in Warsaw on Thursday June 28 with current holders Spain awaiting the winners in Sunday’s showpiece final.

A fascinating encounter looks set to ensue in the Polish capital between the two sides that both carry lamentable reputations and a decorated history, interspersed by past head to head contests which have done much to thrill the sport.

Italy have arguably had the best of things against Germany in years gone by and many people will still remember vividly Marco Tardelli’s strike in 1982 which spearheaded the Azzurri towards World Cup glory. And Italy beat Germany once again in 2006 en route to being crowned World champions.

But the Azzurri may find toppling the Germans a tall order this time around however, as Joachim Loew’s men really do look the real deal.

And they will be desperate for success after going 16 years without lifting a major title – Euro 1996 being their last significant triumph.

Loew has moulded a team full of pace, quality and confidence over the past few years and now they have the required experience and nouse under their belts to go all the way and enhance Germany’s already high standing on the continent.

Impressive in the group phase after collecting nine points against Denmark, Holland and Portugal, Germany then breezed past Greece 4-2 in the last eight, still looking as if they were capable of potentially hitting a completely new level of performance when necessary.

Mario Gomez sat out proceedings against the surprise Euro 2004 kings; however the Bayern Munich marksman is likely to be reinstated to face the Italians who will certainly provide a stiff test for Loew’s charges.

Italy seemed slightly laboured throughout parts of the group stage but they raised their game well against England who they should have dispatched comfortably but for a plethora of wasted chances.

Deep lying playmaker Andrea Pirlo was once again superb orchestrating matters in midfield and Germany will be out to ensure the Juventus star is not allowed the same degree of control and freedom in Warsaw.

With two days extra rest going into this heavyweight bout, Germany have to be regarded as favourites as fitness could well be key if extra time is needed.

It remains to be seen how well Italy have recovered from their exploits against England but Germany will show no mercy whatsoever and should start the match quickly and on the front foot.

They will need to find that extra gear to break down the Italians who are as ever rock solid in defence and in retreat of the ball.

But with no real weaknesses evident in the German line-up from one to eleven, Loew’s side are fancied to edge it and provide that all important moment of true brilliance which could be enough to seal it.

Pirlo will once again be Italy’s crucial player but the lack of a prolific/reliable goalscorer in the team means that they could be found wanting again in terms of clinical finishing.

If Germany can replicate the kind of net busting they demonstrated over the Greeks they should be too strong, but it may take extra time for them to bag a result and subsequently progress to their first major final since the 2002 World Cup.

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28/06/2012     © Frixo 2026