Euro 2008: Germany-Turkey Semi Final
- By A.J. Ryder on June 25, 2008 00:35 GMT
The Germans were the out-and-out favourite to blast through the tournament, and cruise to a Euro 2008 title.
It hasn't exactly been as painless as expected (2-1 loss to Croatia anyone?), but the Germans are in the semi-finals and look to be in good form. Things definitely haven't gone according to plan for Germany, but players have stepped up when necessary; the type of thing you need to win tournaments.
Schweinsteiger and Lukas Podolski, in particular, have been in exceptional form (Bastian's red card aside).
Turkey have grinded out some improbable victories, and their team looks the worse for wear because of it.
They are having problems fielding a complete team with a full line-up of substitutes due to the injuries and suspensions they've accumulated. Their tactics are reminiscent of a mid-April Premiership side calling up 16 year-old reserve players to fill in the gaps.
Unfortunately, Turkey isn't afforded that luxury, and must make due with what they have.
On paper everything is pointing to a decisive German victory. Turkey's lack of depth is bound to catch up to them eventually and while other teams paid the price by underestimating them, the Germans are being rightfully cautious about this one.
It appears the Germans are more than up to the task especially since it turns out that they will likely be facing the 3rd choice Turkish keeper; all signs point to a final score of 3-0 for the Germans.
