Friday, June 30, 2006

A CRACKER OF A MATCH

The quarterfinals of the 2006 FIFA world cup will open with a bang with the match featuring Germany and Argentina. The two teams have put up an impressive display so far in the tournament. The Germans have fielded a team that is the best since 1990. The same goes for the Argentines.

Both sides have wonderful playmakers in Ballack, Riquelme and Messi. Saviola and Crespo have Klose and Podolsky. The Germans are traditionally good defenders while the Argentines are well served by Ayala and company. But the biggest factor could be the home fans, whom the German coach, Klinsmann calls the 12th player.

The second match of the day features Italy and Ukraine. The Italians were lucky to be awarded a penalty in the extra time against Australia. The Azzuri have not displayed the kind of football that would make them strong contenders for the cup. But they might prove to be too strong for the tournament debutants, Ukraine. Shevchenko and the others don’t have the firepower to cause difficulties for the Italian defence.

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