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Germany and Italy go head to head on Thursday evening in the second semi-final of Euro 2012.
It looks to be a fascinating encounter between two sides that play contrasting but equally effective styles of football.
Looking at Germany to begin with, they have been the team to beat in the competition so far and have breezed to this stage of the tournament, maintaining a 100% record.
Last time out against Greece they ran out 4-2 winners and raised their game when they needed to when the Greeks scored a equaliser.
Joachim Loew made a bold decision in resting Mario Gomez, Thomas Muller and Lukas Podolski but it turned out to be a stroke of genius. These three players are now likely to come back into the starting eleven fresh and eager to impress.
With their fast attacking football, the Germans will be difficult to stop, however it is at this stage that they were knocked out of the World Cup in 2010.
As for Italy, they have made it to this stage of Euro 2012 with not many people tipping them to do so.
Before the tournament started they looked to be a side in shocking form and shot of any sort of confidence.
That has not been the case when it has really mattered though. Claudio Prandelli’s men have raised their game on the big stage and now have a chance of going all the way.
In their last match against England, Italy dominated the play but were not clinical enough in front of goal and needed penalty’s to reach the final four.
This time out they must take their chances against a stronger opponent and hope that Andrea Pirlo continues his superb form. Pirlo is the man that holds the key to his side’s success.
Match Odds
It is no surprise that Germany are the favourites to progress to the final and win the match inside 90 minutes. You can back them at 1.83 (5/6) with @ BWIN.
Italy will have to be at their very best to make the final and win the match in normal time. They are being offered at 5.00 (4/1) with BlueSQ. A draw and the match going to extra time is available at 3.50 (5/2) with StanJames.
First Goal-Scorer
With three goals already in the tournament, Mario Gomez is the favourite to break the deadlock on Thursday evening. He has odds of 6.50 (11/2) with Coral.
Italy’s best chance of scoring first looks to come from Mario Balotelli, who looked sharp against England. You can back him to open the scoring at 11.00 (10/1) with VC Bet.
Recommended Bet
Italy are a side that are solid at the back and difficult for teams to break down. We also know how good they are when it comes to a penalty shootout. Prandelli’s men winning the game on spot-kicks has odds of 12.00 (11/1) with Bet365.
