Who: Germany vs. Spain
What: Semifinal #2
When: Wednesday, July 7, 2:30 pm ET
Where: Moses Madhiba Stadium, Durban
The Germans, young and dynamic, have thrilled fans around the globe with their attacking mentality and their evident joy in playing. Its effectiveness is impossible to argue with: four wins, one loss, 13 goals for, two against. As unexpected as it is, this is Germany’s third straight semifinal appearance.
The Spaniards, who excited the world with their dominating poetry in motion two years at the Euros—when the defeated Germany in the final—have reached this point more prosaically this time. They have not rolled over anyone, nor have they exploded for a goal binge. But their defense has allowed only two goals, and regardless of their less-than-scintillating performances, they’ve reached the semifinals for the first time.
Germany
Thomas Müller, who notched two goals in the 4-0 win over Argentina last round, will miss this match through yellow-card accumulation suspension. But with Mesut Özil and Bastian Schweinsteiger, there is plenty of creativity in the attack. And the longtime German captain, Michael Ballack, who was injured before the Cup, has faith that Joachim Löw’s side can win it all.
“It will be difficult to beat Spain, but this is our time,” Michael Ballack told The Times. “Germany have been the best team in the World Cup and just have to keep it going. Spain deserved to win the European Championship final against us two years ago, but with the confidence we've gained from our past two performances, I think it's our moment.”
Striker Miroslav Klose, who now has four goals in the tournament, is one goal shy of Ronaldo’s alltime World Cup record of 15.
Spain
To start Fernando Torres or not to start him? That is the question for Spain manager Vincente del Bosque. El Nino has yet to score this tournament, and rumors are that del Bosque might insert Fernando Llorente.
There is also an injury concern for Cesc Fabregas, who suffered a contusion on his shin in training. His injury helps Torres’ chances for a starting role.
“None of us will settle just for a place in the semi-finals: we want more,” Torres said. “We all know this is the first time our nation has reached this stage of the competition, but we are also all aware that we may never have a chance like this again.”
Regardless, though, one has the feeling that at some point la Furia Roja will put together a complete performance. The defense, despite appearing shaky now and then, has only conceded two goals, led by the play of Gerard Piqué and goalkeeper and captain Iker Casillas.
