EURO 2008

Russia – Probably the best team in the semi-finals right now, Russia had been playing admirably well. They had knocked out Netherlands regarded as a potential Champion of the tournament.

Guus Hiddink elated the win against hot favourite Netherlands.

Spain – One of the top 4 teams from the group stage to survive the quarter-finals albeit a penalty shootout with Italy. Spain had many shots on goal but were mostly firing blanks. They need to avoid long shots on goal cause the Russian goalkeeper will be up to the challenge. More trickery is needed.

Spain on winning the penalty shootout against Italy

Verdict – Very close match. Looks like Aragones superstition, banning the players from wearing yellow,  had paid off. Both teams had outstanding goal keepers. Can they prevail against the lively Russia team? Probably. Will be a low scoring game. Score: Russia 1-0 Spain.

Market odda: Russia(+0.875), Spain(-0.5, -0.925)

Germany – Drew first blood in the game against Portugal winning 3-2, Germany capitalized on its players height advantage pretty well. Knowing Portugal will lose in any aerial challenge, they had 2 free kicks which came off 2 headers and resulted in 2 goals. The free kicks were not directed at the goal mouth but at players standing around the goal mouth. Headers are more difficult to save than direct free kick. Germany found their winning strategy at last.

Bastian Schweinsteiger with his opener.

Turkey – Its like a cat having nine lives, came back from the dead in the last 2 games. Needed a 121min goal to force the game against Croatia to penalties in the quarter-final. Could miss out up to a third of the players in the semi-finals through injuries and suspension including top scorer Nihat Kahveci who is confirmed out due to a thigh injury.

Nihat Kahveci receives a pat on the shoulder from Turkey coach Fatih Terim as he limps out of the quarter-final against Croatia

Verdict – Turkey’s injury woe is Germany’s fortune. Score: Germany 3-1 Turkey.

Market odds: Germany (-11/4, -0.975), Turkey (+0.925)