Spain vs. Germany Preview

The Euro 2008 final is a matchup worth waiting for. Spain has looked like the best team throughout the tournament, scoring frequently and dominating the pace of play. Known for short, controlling passes, Spain possessed the ball for an incredible 65% of their semifinal match with Russia. Germany has slowly played its way into form with the side which was one of the favorites at the last World Cup. Germany's front line is capable of scoring at any time and the Germans have the size to dominate set pieces.

Cesc Fabregas must replace David Villa's offensive spark.

The injury to David Villa could be a big storyline in this match. His hat trick to open the tournament set the tone for Spain, and he has been a stalwart for them so far as the leading scorer. More pressure will now fall on Fernando Torres, who has shown flashes of brilliance but also scuffled at time. Cesc Fabregas, a young extremely talented attacking midfielder, is expected to replace David Villa in the starting XI, and he has been instrumental in creating some of their scoring opportunities, especially against Russia. The real question will be the difference in the Spanish formation with only one true striker, as opposed to the pair of strikers which Aragones has used to great effect so far. With only one target forward, Fabregas' opportunities may be limited. On the other hand, the German defense has looked rather vulnerable at times, and the Spanish are well-suited to take advantage with their quickness.

Unexpectedly, Bastien Schweinsteiger is now the main guy on offense for Germany. (Photo: NICOLAS ASFOURI)

For the Germans, Schweinsteiger and Podolski have looked almost unstoppable. If Miroslav Klose can come anywhere near his form of two years ago, this has to be the most formidable striking force in the tournament. However, Klose has struggled, even though he's scored twice. The German attack is best when Lahm or some of the other defenders are able to push forward and open things up, but that will be extremely dangerous with the faster Spanish lurking behind them for a counterattack. The Germans need an outstanding game from Lahm and others at both ends of the field if they hope to really test the Spanish.

The case for Spain:
The quicker, younger, faster team, the Spanish should be able to control possession and create plenty of opportunities by running or dribbling past the slower German defenders. Their speed should force the German fullbacks to stay back, limiting the German numbers forward and forcing the three offensive players to play by themselves. Spain has been the best team all tournament, and should continue that form.

The case for Germany:
The Germans have a big advantage in experience, returning most of their team from the last World Cup and playing with the confidence of a solid international record in major tournaments. Spain still has a reputation for choking on the biggest stages, and an early German lead could really test the Spaniards' nerves, since they haven't trailed at all in the elimination rounds. In addition, the Germans can counterattack quite well, and appear accustomed to having limited possession of the ball, so the Spanish possession style shouldn't bother them. Turkey appeared to control the pace of play for much of their semifinal, but Germany was patient and struck very effectively when the opportunity presented itself.

Prediction:
Spain, 3-1.