DURBAN, South Africa – Wednesday’s World Cup semifinal between Spain and Germany is many things. A battle between soccer powerhouses, a rematch of the 2008 European Championships final and a clash of styles.
The pros and cons of Spain’s measured approach and Germany’s ruthless counterattacks have been hotly debated for the past few days, ever since form and fate paired these teams together.
Yet amid all the conjecture and discussion there are a couple of facts that no one is disputing: this is the most anticipated game of this World Cup and either side would be a worthy champion.
Here we take a look at the five things to watch for in this monumental clash between a pair of soccer titans.
1. Can you hear the drums Fernando?
Spain striker Fernando Torres has been one of the biggest disappointments of the World Cup, failing to score in all five games and looking a sorry shadow of his normal self. While the outstanding form of his attacking colleague, David Villa, has papered over the cracks somewhat, there is no better time for the Liverpool man to finally make his mark on the tournament.
Torres scored the winner against Germany in the final of the 2008 European Championships and at his best is one of the best forwards on the planet. At his current level, he is a liability.
Look out for: Rumors that Torres is not fully fit have followed him ever since Spain’s opening game, only to be summarily shot down by the national team staff. If you see him not moving with the kind of fluidity you’d expect from such a finely tuned athlete it could be your eyes deceiving you – or Spanish officials might have been economical with the truth.
2. Getting Klose-r to history
Miroslav Klose always reserves his best form for the World Cup and this year is no different. The Bayern Munich striker barely played during the latter part of the German club season but has already rattled in four goals in South Africa and is looking very sharp.
He now sits tantalizingly poised to take a shot at history, with his career tally of 14 World Cup goals, level in second place all-time with fellow German Gerd Mueller, and one behind record-holder Ronaldo of Brazil.
Look out for: Klose will like his chances of beating Spanish defender Carlos Puyol for pace. Expect him to occupy some deep positions and then attempt to run on to long balls forward, just like he did against England in the round of 16.
3. Loew lucky sweater
German head coach Joachim Loew would be entitled to feel a bit jealous every time he looks in his hotel room wardrobe. Because the man in charge isn’t the one getting the credit for his team’s success, it is his “lucky” blue cashmere sweater that he hasn’t washed since the start of the tournament.
Superstition aside though, it is Loew’s tactical acumen that has had a huge role in Germany’s progress through the tournament, but Spain will provide a whole new challenge Wednesday.
Look out for: Loew has every reason to feel good about the structure of his side but he will be forced to make at least one change. In-form midfielder Thomas Mueller is suspended, meaning either Cacau, Piotr Trochowski or Toni Kroos will come in. Cacau’s selection would be the most adventurous; Trochowski is the player most similar to Mueller.
4. Clutch Casillas
After a disappointing performance in Spain’s opening defeat to Switzerland, questions were raised over the form of Iker Casillas, the side’s goalkeeper, captain and talisman. Critics even suggested he may have been distracted by the presence of his former girlfriend, a sideline television reporter.
But Casillas has responded strongly ever since and produced a string of strong saves to close out the group stage – and against Portugal and Paraguay.
Look out for: When Spain won the European Championships two years ago Casillas played a huge role – but not just between the posts. He is the spiritual leader of this side and has an important job in inspiring and motivating his players. After being uncharacteristically quiet and reserved early in the event, he has found his voice recently.
5. Midfield maestros
More than anything else this match could be decided by the showdown between midfield stars Bastian Schweinsteiger of Germany and Xavi of Spain. Xavi is pure class, with simple touches and maximum efficiency – and has barely given the ball away all tournament. Schweinsteiger is more dynamic and creative and has been the German heartbeat so far.
Look out for: Schweinsteiger may have less freedom to roam forward in this clash, needing to keep a defensive eye on Spain’s talent-laden midfield. But if Germany is to get a foothold in the game he must keep an offensive mindset and Xavi and his colleagues on the back foot. Whatever your allegiance, enjoy the contest between these two men with differing style but similar excellence.
