It's been a crazy ride to this point. A lot of surprises, and some great soccer to date. I keep reading all these " conspiracy theories " from people who are new to the covers soccer forum. Yup, we know SPORTS has fixing in it. Just look around this globe, and tell me that you don't concur with the statement...." Where there is big money, there is corruption ".
But I won't buy into any of that at this point. I would like to think that the World Cup is still " The Beautiful Game ". So the following is purely based on one mans thoughts of how things might unfold. Feel free to offer opinions, positive feedback, or a contrary view......just leave the " conspiracy theories " out please.
Germany / France : 12pm
Germany haven't exactly lived up to the expectations of a nation that demands perfection. I understand all the criticism of Loew as a coach, since he seems to be uncertain of what mix of players will work for him. I wish he would give up on all the experiments and tinkering, and go with the set 11 that we German fans want to see. Lahm belongs on the back line, along side Hummels, Mertasacker and Boateng. Goetze is a very talented young player, but clearly out of his element this World Cup. I also believe Schuller has earned a spot alongside Mueller upfront.
Seeing Schweinsteger come off late in the game against Algeria, is a cause for big concern. Was it just dehydration, or a reaccurance of the problems that have plagued him the past 2 years.
One thing that was very noticeable so far.......Germany can be exposed on the counter attack.
France have been lights out to date, but haven't played the caliber of Germany as yet. They are probably one of the most talented, and skilled teams in this tournament. They have skilled players at key positions......namely Benzema, Giroud and Valbuena in attack, and Cabaye, Pogba and Matudi in support.
Watching them play against Nigeria, it almost seemed to mirror the German effort against Algeria. Conserve energy in the first half by keeping their shape, and not allowing anything through the middle of the pitch, then pouring it on in the last 20 minutes.
I don't know that I could provide a viable argument for either side, but I do see scoring opportunities at both ends in abundance. Two Euopean teams who play similar styles, tells me that goals may not be an issue here. Should be a very entertaining game to watch.
Over 2.5 @ 2.25