At the quarter-final stage of a World Cup tournament, matches are often very close. We’re used to seeing extra time, penalty kicks or low scoring games. But Saturday, Germany put on a clinic in how to play defensively sound soccer as well as how to mount explosive counter-attacks as well as finishing off goals with such precision.
To say Germany’s performance was mindblowing is an understatement. They controlled this game from the start and prevented Argentina from getting many chances. Just as they did against England, Germany played a team game and everyone shone from the goalkeeper all the way through the forwards.
Argentina looked stunned, frustrated and unable to find creative ways to get around the tough German midfielders and defenders. It’s a small comfort for England supporters, but at least Fabio Capello’s side wasn’t the only one to be demolished by Germany. And at least England scored two goals (one being painfully disallowed).
A few days ago it seemed as if the South American teams would control this tournament. But after the exit of Brazil and now Argentina, the advantage is on the side of Europe who have three strong teams who are still remaining in the tournament. The prospect of a Spain against Germany semi-final is tantalizing, but the Spaniards first have to get past a very tough Paraguay side later this afternoon.
