| |
It seems that Spain is the favorite with most nationalities outside of Germany. With Michael Ballack looking doubtful - and Jogi Loew talking about playing Tim Borowski (ugh!) then it looks as though the balance of power may have swung to the Spanish.
 This will not bother the Germans at all. If Ballack does miss the final, this will of course be a blow. But playing Schweinsteiger behind the strikers in that forward position that Ballack has been profiting from in the latter games may prove a match-winning alternative. It might, however, all be kidology on Loew's part. Spain will have prepared with Ballack in mind, employing a game plan which would include negating the powerful Germany captain's surging influence. If they start to think of a way of stopping Schweini from that position instead - and Ballack takes to the field - it may not ruin Luis Aragones' plans but it will force a quick rethink - and at the last minute, that can be equally disruptive.
Saying that, despite the absence of David Villa, Spain look very strong and full of attacking intent. If the German midfield takes to the pitch without the steel of Ballack, the shaky defense of Mertesacker and Metzelder may find the creative Cesc Fabregas (if he plays) a handful, especially if Fernando Torres takes the sole striker role just in front of him. Fabregas will look to exploit the German defense's lack of mobility and get the lightning fast Torres behind with only the flappable Lehmann to beat.
At the other end, however, Podolski may give Sergio Ramos a torrid time on the left where his dangerous crosses have proved deadly and the diminuitve Spanish center backs may have problems with Klose and others when it comes to set pieces and crosses.
While Spain seem to be out in front in the opinions of many, I myself see this being a very close game. It could go either way...and maybe to the wire.
|
|
