World Cup 2010: Spain 0-0 Portugal - Half Time
The first half of the match between European big shots, Spain and Portugal, ended goal less, here in Cape Town. This is perhaps the first game where the Spanish have met a team capable of beating them, even when they are on their game. The Portuguese team is a very well organized unit, one which is not easy to break down, as Brazil found out in the group stages.
The match stats show that Spain enjoyed the majority of the possession but that does not explain the true nature of this game. While Spain did enjoy the greater share of possession, it was largely in front of the Portuguese midfield. The Spanish appeared to have no answer to a very well drilled defence and midfield which maintained its’ shape throughout the game.
The best chances of the game, in fact, fell the way of the Portugal team. All of them coming about the same way, as the counter-attacking style of Portugal took advantage of the attacking intent of the Spanish.
The first chance fell to Tiago, in the 20th minute, as he received the ball at the edge of the penalty area. A strong dipping shot was only partially cleared by Casillas, who had to use all of his strength to then push them ball away from the on-rushing Almeida.
In the 39th minute, Almeida really should have put the ball in the back of the net after a very good cross from Meireles found its’ way to the head of the Portuguese forward. Almeida, however, could not set himself properly and the chance was wasted. Tiago had a similar chance in the closing stages of the half but again the header went wide.
The first half ended with the score 0-0. The Spanish Coach Del Basque will have to figure out a way to get past the resolute Portuguese defence. Ricardo Carvalho, particularly, was very impressive in making sure neither Fernando Torres nor David Villia got involved into the game, with a number of excellent tackles on the Spanish forwards. Cristiano Ronaldo will also be looking for an improved showing in the next half, after being virutally anonymous for most of the first half.
Another penalty shoot-out could be on its’ way but both teams will be desperate to settle the match before it gets to that point.
Tags: