World Cup Semi-Final #2

Germany 0-1 Spain

Were the German's attacking intentions curbed by a superior side or was their game plan to play deep and catch them on the break? A little of both, I think, but the former statement made itself more apparent as the game went on.

Spain completely dominated possession throughout a game which saw a deep-lying German defense and a packed midfield unwilling to surrender much space. The German counter sprung as quickly as in previous matches but they were let down by some poor decision making on the few chances they had numerical advantage.

It always pains me to see a game settled by a set-piece but Puyol's headed goal from a corner on 73mins gave them a deserved win. The European Champions are capable of flowing passing moves, beautiful exchanges between interchanging midfielders climaxing in great goals but not today.

Perhaps the early defeat to Switzerland has shaken them into a more pragmatic strategy. After their defense was so badly exposed by the Swiss counter-attack which may have heightened their wariness and cause them to be extra protective of their back four.