they played 3 tough matches on trot. muller was given harsh yellow card for involuntary handeling. all good things come to an end. in wc 2006, it was italy who beat germans, now it is turn of spain.
The refereeing which has been a topic of discussion in this tournament was the best. No yellow card and the game was well controlled. Spain definitely had better possession and more shots at the goal. Despite being shorter than most German players, Puyol's header was brilliant. I have backed Spain from the very start and are favourites to win. They have peaked at the right moment11
Germany's strategy appeared to be to play out till 15 mts before final whistle and then go all out for scoring goals. This was evident from the way the ball was with Spain for 60% of the time and Germans were happy sending it over the side lines. Spainish players tackled the Germans very well weaving a web with the result germany hardly could penetrate the Spanish defense. Well played Spain.
Was interesting to see Spain roll "chaklis" around the Germans in the match. I hope they don't get caught in the moment and forget to score when they play against Holland.
Overall, Germany was a very tough opponent, but lacking innovation in the middle for some reason. Once under pressure, they cracked.
Re: Looks like the Octopus is always right
by south indian on Jul 08, 2010 08:01 AM
poor octopus !!! it would reach the dinner table as lovely snack. That's what germans have been saying that it would be killed and served as snacks to the german team if it's prophecy comes true. oh poor octopus paul. i pity on you!!!!!!!!!
Re: Re: Looks like the Octopus is always right
by Prashanth DSouza on Jul 08, 2010 08:03 AM
Actually even the Argentinians has prepared a menu with octopus as the main theme, and described how they would prepare it. The Octopus is apparently now in hiding somewhere in Siberia :))
Re: MATCH
by Observer on Jul 08, 2010 08:34 AM
As I had said earlier "German fans, prepare for the hearbreak", so was the final result. With a dominating style of ball possession game Spain does not allow the opposition team to play at all. So it could be foreseen that with such a tactical game play by Spain, Germany would be losing their way in the semis. The German team was certainly good, but their big wins came against hot air balloon teams like England and Argentina who allowed them to play their natural game. But stronger teams like Spain obviously won't allow them that luxury.
