The Euro 2008 quarterfinals came to an end over the past weekend — producing another host of upsets as Croatia, Italy and, most notably, Holland all crashed out.

Now, in Part Three of his much talked about 'Euro 2008 wrap', iafrica.com's Barend Prins looks ahead to the ensuing semifinals.

Germany vs Turkey

Pre-tournament favourites Germany take on the comeback kings Turkey in Wednesday evening's first semifinal of Euro 2008. No one gave Turkey much of a chance of progressing past the Group stages, but despite going behind in all four of their matches thus far (producing two victories and one draw) — they are nevertheless here and in the Last Four.

The Germans, of course, were expected to cruise through to the semifinals, but a hiccup at the hands of Croatia made their progress somewhat more of a challenge. Although the Germans have not exactly set the world alight, history would suggest that they are huge favourites to proceed to their fifth European final.

History can be misleading, however, as Germany's last recorded victory over the Turks was in a friendly encounter in 1992! Since then, these two sides have met thrice, with Turkey winning twice and the teams drawing once. Their last meeting was in October 2005, in which Turkey prevailed 2-1 — suggesting this should be another closely-contested encounter.

Germany could be without midfielder Torsten Frings, who missed the Portugal game with a rib injury. The Turks, on the other hand, have just 13 fit outfield players, with inspirational trio Tuncay Sanli, Arda Turan and Emre Asik set to miss out. Coach Fatih Terim has even joked about playing reserve 'keeper Tolgan Zengin as a striker should the need arise.

All in all, the Germans should have too much firepower for the injury-ravaged Turkish team — expect them to win by two goals.

Spain vs Russia

After a 4-1 thrashing at the hands of Spain in their first Group D fixture, Russia have shown the viewing public what they are capable of — and their 3-1 victory over the much-vaunted side from the Netherlands in the quarterfinals was something to behold!

Spain are the only unbeaten side left in the tournament, after getting maximum points in the group stages (which included a 4-1 win over Russia) and ousting world champions Italy in the quarterfinals. It would be foolish for the Spaniards to think their earlier result against the Russians will have any bearing on their meeting on Thursday evening though. That was arguably the best the Spaniards have played at Euro 2008, as well as that being Russia's worst performance.

The main difference between this semifinal and their previous encounter is the presence of Zenit St Petersburg playmaker Andrei Arshavin. Russia sorely missed his influence in their first two matches, but he has shown some sublime skills in their victories over Sweden and Holland — scoring on both occasions. (Incidentally, Arshavin has declared his interest in playing in Spain next season.)

Spain will be going into the match as slight favourites, but it is not a title that belies them well. All too often they have disappointed when the going has gotten really tough. Conversely, Russia look like a team just enjoying their good run of form, uninhibited by expectations.

It should be a good game between two footballing sides with very experienced managers at the helm. I fancy Russia will continue their dream run and send Spain crashing out of Euro 2008. Would anyone bet against Arshavin scoring the winner against some of his future teammates?

  • Is Barend on the right track or do you disagree? Mail the iafrica.com sports team!


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