Tournament favourites Germany face rank outsiders Turkey in the first semi final of Euro 2008.
Pre tournament favourites Germany returned to their deadly best to claim a spot in the semifinals, and will come face to face with comeback kings Turkey, who narrowly dfeated Croatia in another astonishing display of last minute heroics. Who progresses to the final of Euro 2008 depends on whether brute power or undying heart will emerge victorious in this matchup of opposites.
The German machine seems to have worked through all of its kinks and weaknesses as they finally displayed what they are capable of against a determined Portuguese side in the first quarterfinal of the tournament. Bastian Sweinsteiger returned from suspension in glorious fashion, scoring once and assisting two more in their 3-2 victory.
His deceptive spot kicks were expertly put away by Miroslav Klose and captain Michael Ballack. Despite conceding a late goal to Helder Postiga, the Germans had built a solid foundation throughout the match and held on to win. Their advancement came as a surprise to many, who thought Portugal, as they stronger side in the group stages, would have no trouble defeating the somewhat subdued Germans, but they have shown they can play amongst the best.
Turkey game against Croatia was a much less interesting affair for the allocated 90 minutes. It was only in extra time that the match came to life, in the last minutes in fact. Most would have though the game was over when Croatia went ahead in the final minute of extra time, but Semih managed to strike home the equalizer with the last kick of the game and send the tie to penalties. By then Turkey were fired up and won comfortably 3-1 in the shootout. They will hope they can produce such magic three times in a row when they play Germany, but must improve their overall performance to do so.
Germany will of course be the bookmakers favourites to win this match but Turkey have shown they cannot be ruled out. They have come from behind to beat Switzerland and the Czech Republic in the group stage and Croatia in quarter finals. However, Fatih Terim’s side are suffering a player crisis, with several injured and suspended ahead of the semi final. Indeed, third choice goalkeeper Tolgan Zengin may have to play as an outfield substitute. This situation will have surely scuppered Turkey’s preparations while Germany looked stronger against Portugal in the quarter final than they did during the first round. SoccerAdvise.com Verdict: Germany @ 1.44 Bet365 - £100 FREE BET! Other Odds: Turkey @ 8.0 Skybet - £20 FREE BET! Draw @ 4.5 VCBet - £100 FREE BET!
