Spain returns to the Moses Mabhida Stadium where Switzerland shocked La Furia Roja 3 weeks ago; however this time they will face a much more difficult opponent in Germany. The early tournament favorites have been struggling for form this World Cup, but have consistently snuck through with the help of 5-star striker David Villa. Their semi-final berth was not secured until the 83' last Saturday against Paraguay, drawing questions about Spain's ability to find the net.
If you had to pick an MVP for this year's World Cup, it would have to be Germany. With 13 goals scored and 2 allowed in just 5 games, the
DFB Eleven seem to be unstoppable. Miroslav Klose is nearing Ronaldo's record with 14 all-time goals in the Finals and would tie the Brazilian should he score on Wednesday.
Semi-finals: Germany vs. Spain
Date: 7 July, 2010 - 20:30 CET
Stadium: Moses Mabhida Stadium - Durban
Referee: Viktor Kassai (Hungary)
Germany:
Keeper: Manuel Neuer
Defenders: Arne Friedrich, Philip Lahm, Per Mertesacker, Jerome Boateng
Midfielders: Bastian Schweinsteiger, Sami Khedira, Lukas Podolski, Mesut Ozil, Piotr Trochowski
Forwards: Miroslav Klose
Manager: Joachim Low
Injured: -
Booked: Thomas Mueller
Spain:
Goalkeeper: Iker Casillas
Defenders: Sergio Ramos, Carlos Puyol, Gerard Pique, Joan Capdevila
Midfielders: Xavi, Xabi Alonso, Andres Iniesta, Sergio Busquets
Forwards: David Villa, Cesc Fabregas
Manager: Vincente del Bosque
Injured: -
Booked: -
These teams met last in the Euro 2008 Finals, a game which Spain won 1-0. The circumstances are now different as the Germans have all the momentum while Spain were the favorites 2 years ago. There is a 30% chance of precipitation in Durban but the temperature should be around 17 degrees. Viktor Kassai from Hungary will oversee the match.
Last meeting: 29.06.2008, Germany - Spain 0:1
Wins Germany: 1
Wins Spain: 2
Draws: 2
Spain have yet to make an impression on me this World Cup. Fernando Torres is out of form and the team relies to heavily on David Villa. Germany have proved themselves more than capable, even when Miroslav Klose was suspended. High on confidence and hungry to reach the final, expect Germany to get another win in Durban.
The best odds for Germany win you will find at
MyBet,
Betfair and
Expekt.
