FIFA 2010 World Cup - The Spanish Trail Blazers
It is ironic that despite all the pretty passing, the triangles and operating in confined spaces, it took a good old fashioned header from a set piece by the most warrior-like of all Spanish players to score the winning goal. Carlos Puyol steamed in to score a historic goal which finally put the La Roja in their first World Cup final ever.
Spain's 1-0 defeat of Germany validated their tag of being pre-tournament favourites by coming up with a performance, which while not as fluid as in 2008, was still impressive enough. The Euro 2008 winners dominated proceedings at the Durban stadium bossing possession and starving Germany of any opportunities on the counter attack.
Fernando Torres of Liverpool was left out of the starting line up as Barcelona's Pedro took his place in the side. The change seemed effective as Spain started in brilliant fashion. The first 15 minutes saw the Spaniards completely blank out Germany in terms of ball possession. As predicted Spain took care of the ball with Xavi, Xabi Alonso and Andres Iniesta looking to plug holes in the German defence. The Germans were resolute, especially in the first half and looked threatening the few times that they broke out of defence when a Spanish attack broke down. There might not have been high-octane action on display but it was a chess match which the purists must have enjoyed thoroughly. The Spanish side was mindful of the pace with which the Germans could break and kept a lid on the creative hub of their side, namely, Mesut Ozil. World Cup specialist Miroslav Klose was given offside when replays showed he might have been marginally onside. But by and large, it was the Spanish who were making the effort with the Germans content to defend deep and then break with lightning speed. The first half ended goalless as Germany looked to replicate Switzerland's formula of beating their Iberian opponents, albeit with more panache.
The second half saw Spain out of the traps in a hurry quickening the speed of their passing as they looked for a winner. Cranking up the pressure, it was the Spanish side which looked more likely to affect a breakthrough. The winner duly arrived in the 73rd minute as Puyol showed how efficiency at set-pieces can affect the outcome of important games. Germany tried to get back in the game but were thwarted by Spanish captain Iker Casillas who was inspired form repelling everything that was thrown at him. His save from the shot of German midfielder Toni Kroos was of crucial importance. Spain had chances to further increase their lead with Pedro missing a good opportunity to slide in Torres. Despite German forays in their territory, the Spanish held on for a famous win to confirm a final date with Holland. With the win, this team created history as well as becoming the first Spanish team to reach the World Cup final ever. Their match up with Holland ensures that there will be a new champion on the pantheon of champions coming 11th of July.
While Spain can look forward to a historic final, Germany will now have to battle Uruguay for a third place play off. On a side note, it must be mentioned that Joachim Lowe's side did brilliantly in the tournament but this match might have been a fixture way too far. The German team played excellently throughout the tournament bringing much needed entertainment to South Africa. However, against Spain, they came up against a side which is not only of high quality but has become extremely experienced in matches of crucial importance. What should be remembered however is the youth of this German side. This team stood toe to toe with Spain at times and it must be heartening to know that except for Klose, majority of this team will make another trip to the World Cup in 2014. That is a tantalizing and exciting prospect.
All eyes, however, should be focused on a mouth-watering encounter between the two sides who have not been spectacular but have had enough quality to get the job done. While Spain may be favourites for the final, the Orange will be looking to create history of their own. The Spanish have come a long way after their first match defeat against Switzerland while the Netherlands have had to overcome barriers posed by tournament favourites Brazil and exciting dark horses, Uruguay.
Given that the victors of the final will be able to claim a piece of history, it promises to be a match of epic proportions. Stay tuned.
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