Euro 2012 Championship Prediction
With just mere hours until the Euro 2012 kickoff, Europe is abuzz with anticipation of one of the world’s best tournaments. With that, predictions are being made all across the board, and one of the main favorites, the Netherlands, is not even making it past the group stage according to what I think! I could be wrong, I could be right, but all I know is I’m ready for Euro’s to begin. But before that, it’s time to make my semifinals and final predictions.
Semifinal #1 – Germany vs Portugal
In a rematch of the group B showdown, the German side will continue to show why they are one of the odds on favorite to win this tournament. Their combination of freakishly athletic and knowledgeable young players, plus their savvy veteran leadership will continue to pave the way to a showdown with Spain in a rematch of the World Cup 2010 semifinals, a 1-0 victory that Germans will not soon forget. Portugal will have made more noise than many would have believed, but they still have work to do.
Semifinal #2 – Spain vs France
Les Blues is picked to win by my colleague here at RantSports, but I cannot see them getting past a strong Spanish side, even without two of their usual starters. They just have so much talent and depth, but a determined French side will make them work. I think a late goal by Spain will propel them into the finals, with a showdown versus the Germans.
Championship Prediction: Germany vs Spain
Germany has been itching to face this Spanish side since a Carles Puyol goal in the 73rd minute put Spain into the World Cup Finals, which they would win. Now, it’s the Germans turn to inflict some pain. The German side is much more skilled on both sides of the ball then France, and will create plenty of opportunities. Also in this match will be Thomas Müller, who is not playing in the same form as the World Cup, but could have made the difference there. He has been waiting for this for two years after a cheap yellow for a hand ball in the quarterfinal match against Argentina.
The Germans opened up a new offense on the World Cup in 2010 after captain Michael Ballack was injured leading up to the World Cup. Players like Sami Khedira, Mesut Özil, and Müller have all grown since then, forming one of the best midfields the world has ever seen. With Miroslav Klose, Lukas Podolski, and Mario Gomez, the Germans should create plenty of opportunities on goal.
Spain will not be intimidated, however. David Silva, Xabi Alonso, Xavi, Andres Iniesta, and Fernando Torres will be ready to try and win Euro 2012. Torres has not had great form at all lately, having trouble making the field with his club team Chelsea. But sometimes, the biggest stage will bring out the best in everyone, and who knows, he might just step up his game. However, I still won’t think it will be enough to outhit a tough German side looking for another trophy to add to their already stellar case.
I think Germany will win this match 3-2, but it will not be decided until a late goal. It is shaping up to be a great tournament. Let the games begin!
Paul Troupe is the lead writer for the Nebraska Cornhuskers and San Antonio Spurs, while covering many major sports for RantSports. You can follow him on Twitter @gamin4HIM
