The Semis

The way the matches have progressed have proved beyond doubt that you cannot just scrape throught with patchy performances...read Brazil and England. At least the ones in the semis are the best performing or the most improving sides seen in this World Cup. Though Spain and Argentina also played well, they ended up in the wrong side of the draw.

Semi 1: Italy vs Germany

Italy has got the best defence in this world cup. They are disciplined, dont give anything away and work very well as a team. All these guys have been playing the same league and there is something similar in their thought process I guess.
Germany on the other hand have a bubbly team. They are one team who has so far played 60-70% of their game in their opposition's half. Constantly attacking, this team can score from close range through Klose and Podolski and from long range from Ballack (though he has not scored one yet), Sweinsteiger and Schneider.


Verdict:Italy. Yes I think the Italians will hold good against the Germans. Going by the trend in this World Cup, it will not be a surprise.

Semi 2: France vs Portugal

With Deco and Costinha back and Ronaldo firing on all cylinders, the Portuguese look like favourites. More so because the French victory over Brazil was an inspired one, one that happened when they were down and had nothing to lose except pride. Wonder if Portugal would be able to inspire the French. I would like to see Zizou sign off in style. He has been the best of his generation and he needs one more star performance. Figo also has promised more than he can deliver so far in his career and will also be looking at a star turn.

Verdict:France.Well, surprise again. I want France to win more than anything else.