Germany and Spain have taken different paths to reach the final of the European soccer championship but regardless of how they made it here, one more game remains to be played, winner takes all.
Germany has triumphed at the Euros three times, most recently in 1996. Spain's only major trophy came in 1964 when they won the European Nations Cup (as the European soccer championship was called back then).
Germany has shown the characteristics that soccer fans for decades have come to know—physical strength, mental toughness, determination, aggressiveness, and attacking prowess. However, the play of goalkeeper Jens Lehmann and the heart of the German defense are the current concerns.
Spain, on the other hand, looks to re-write their recent history in major competitions. Having been tagged as chokers and underachievers for not living up to their potential, Spain has delivered the goods all tournament long, winning every game they've played.
The latest news on the injury front is that Spain's leading goal scorer, David Villa, will not be able to play in the final due to a leg injury suffered against Russia in the semifinal. Germany's Michael Ballack is doubtful with a right calf injury and did not train with the team on Friday. Should Ballack be unable to play, it would be the second major final he'd miss after being suspended for the 2002 World Cup final against Brazil.
Spain will have an easier time compensating for Villa as Arsenal's Cesc Fabregas should start in the midfield after an outstanding performance against Russia in the semifinal. Germany will have a more difficult time adjusting to Ballack's loss, should the German skipper be unable to play.
Euro 2008 Soccer
UEFA confirmed that the playing surface at the Ernst Happel Stadium in Vienna would be in excellent condition on Sunday. The heavy rain and thunderstorms have certainly not failed to make headlines during the three-week tournament.
Breaking It All Down
Looking at the goalkeepers, Iker Casillas of Spain and Jens Lehmann of Germany have had contrasting tournaments so far. Lehmann, 38, has conceded six goals in five games and hasn't looked his best. Casillas, 27, has had an outstanding tournament thus far following up his solid season with Real Madrid. Give Spain the advantage unless the final is to be decided on penalty shots, in which case I feel Lehmann's experience will come up big. Who knows, he may already have Spain's penalty kick tendencies on a sheet of paper!
On defense, Spain's central partnership of Puyol and Marchena has been solid, physical, and effective. Germany's central partnership of Metzelder and Mertesacker lack speed but have plenty of height. Spain's speedy striker Fernando Torres will match up well against Germany's defense. Spain can use the long-ball to exploit Germany's slower defenders. Germany on the other hand will threaten Spain with crosses to capitalize on their strength, which is height.
In midfield, it is again a contrast between the size and power of Germany and Spain's quickness and passing ability. With Cesc Fabregas playing in the English Premier League against players like Ballack, Spain should not be overawed. Germany will have to pursue and harass the likes of Xavi, Iniesta, David Silva, and Marcos Senna. Spain will try to control possession while Germany will be more direct with their midfield play.
Germany's Lukas Podolski has the chance to win the golden boot as top scorer if he can score two goals in the final. He has been in outstanding form with three goals so far and has combined excellently with Bastian Schweinsteiger from the left wing.
With much of the focus on David Villa, Fernando Torres has quietly enjoyed a decent tournament but his chance to shine internationally is now. We all know how well he did for Liverpool. Expect to see Spanish Primera Liga top scorer Daniel Guiza feature as well.
Soccer fans all around the world are in for a real treat as these two teams have proven themselves to be superior to all others. Germany has a way of grinding out wins when they don't play their best while Spain has also come up with the goods when needed. Something has to give.
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