And then there were four. The quarterfinals were exciting but now the semi-finals are underway with two matches that were not truly expected. Two world powers against two underdogs. Germany vs Turkey and Spain vs Russia. Even though some of the favorites like Portugal and The Netherlands are out, the 2008 Eurocup is still going strong with great play and exciting surprises.Here is what you can expect from the semi-finals…
GERMANY vs TURKEY
Germany’s victory over Portugal in the quarterfinals was impressive but not completely surprising. They are always a tough team to beat. Even when their play is not at its best, the Germans know how to win decisive games. With experienced players like Ballack, Klose and Podolski, the three-time European champions should be ready to handle a game of this magnitude.
On the other hand we have Turkey. A team filled with courage, will and a little magic in them. They have incredibly scored in the last minute of their last three games taking them unexpectedly to this high stage of the tournament. It is the first Eurocup semi-final in their history and will try anything to continue their Cinderella story.
Personal Favorite: Germany- How can you not like the Cinderella team? The truth is that Turkey has too many things against them. Inexperience, suspensions and injuries will probable break the chemistry of the team. It will be a battle of technique vs will, and probably, the technique will prevail. Germany is too strong and experienced of a team to let an ultra inspired team surprise them. Yes, Turkey did shock the world with their upset against Croatia, but Germany is a more solid team. The Germans are used to playing in big stages and will not shy away from controlling the game. I don’t expect a massacre, but the game should end in regulation time without any last minute miracles.
SPAIN vs RUSSIA
The Spanish beat the Italians in penalty kicks during the quarterfinals. The “Red Fury” is ready to forget all the chokes and terrible games that have ended their dreams to win something big in their history. Beating Italy is a huge step and a great moral boost that should motivate them. Their dangerous offense led by Villa and Torres should revive and flourish if they hope to beat the Russians.
But Russia has other plans. They might not be the most spectacular team in the tournament, but they play with great team effort and an offensive mentality. Their head coach, Guus Hiddink, is a mastermind who has a strategy against any critical situation. If not, ask the Dutch. The grand favorite to win it all was surprised by this aggressive Russian team who tried to achieve the victory from the starting whistle. Their historic upset should motivate them to try to get to the final and eventually win the championship.
Personal Favorite: Russia- I might be a little crazy for choosing this upset, but here are my reasons. The Russians have a tremendous confidence while the Spaniards are feeling a little more cautious. Spain didn’t play too well against the Italians and the Russians know that. They will take advantage of this situation and probably be aggressive from the beginning.
Also, the Russians had a terrible first game when they lost to, none other, Spain with an embarrassing score of 4-1 during group play. After that, Russia has elevated their game with an inspiration created after that defeat. On the other hand, Spain started exceptionally, but ended playing less than impressive during the course of the Eurocup. Proving that the Spanish are also dealing with a mental pressure from a country that demands an end to a shameful drought.
If Spain plays smart, they should be able to win this extremely close game. In paper, they have the better team. But psychologically, Russia has the edge and that can be the difference.
No matter the outcome of any of these two games, the final should be spectacular. The champion is among one of these four teams and everything will be decided on the field.
Good luck and see you at the final!
Photo by WikipediaÂ
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