Germany vs Greece – Quarter Final 2

Posted on June 20, 2012 by Abdul Khaled

Greece again defied all the odds to spring a major surprise at a European championship, this time knocking out one of the tournament favourites in the group stage. After comprehensively beating the Czech Republic in their opening game, Russia had been installed as potential dark horses to win the competition and were almost certain to qualify from the group as group winners.

Especially when they were coming up against Greece in the final group game needing only a point to qualify. Greece were bottom of the group with a solitary point and poor showing thus far in the tournament. This was meant to be a walk in the park for the Russians.

But the Russians were made to pay for underestimating the Greeks, as Giorgos Karagounis’ goal proved the 2004 Euro victory may not have been a fluke after all. Solid defensively and effective on the counter attack, Greece proved they still have the qualities to emulate their previous Euro success.

In order to do so they must overcome the might of the Germans in the quarter finals. The Germans were considered among the hot favourites pre tournament, along with Spain and Holland. With Holland already being knocked out and Spain being somewhat inconsistent, the Germans have now emerged as the team to beat.

A beautiful mix of youth and experience provides the energy and discipline needed to win a tournament. The spine of the German team is as good as any in Europe. A world class goalkeeper in Manuel Neuer, an impressive centre back in Mats Hummels, the midfield general Bastian Schweinsteiger and the deadly Mario Gomez in attack provide Germany with a solid foundation.

When you add in extras such as Philip Lamb, one of the most accomplished full backs in world football, Mesut Ozil, one of the most effective playmakers in Europe, and Thomas Muller, one of the most dangerous young forwards on the international stage, then you really do have the ingredients for a championship winning side.

3 wins out of 3 means Germany are the only team to have a 100% record thus far and this will bring confidence to the German side heading into the quarter final matches. But Greece seem to flourish when given the underdog tag and the Germans will have to make sure they don’t make the same mistakes the Russians made in underestimating them.

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