FIFA 2010 - Semis

Uruguay - Netherlands

 Finally the matches started living up to a certain standard. Uruguay played very well in the first half, but so did the Dutch. For me the highlight of the match were the two first half goals by both teams, classic field goals from top of the box. These were no slide the ball in slam-dunks or headers (though a lot of headers are quite skillful, many are quite lucky too), but proper full fledged drives that beat the goal keeper for pace and placement.

After the first half, Uruguay seemed to lose their way for a bit, which was exploited by the Dutch. Two goals in quick succession meant that Uruguay had their backs to the wall. Even then, they seemed to wake up only around the 86th or 87th minute and by the time injury time started, they were looking threatening, however it was a little too late in the game. The referee made it exciting by refusing to blow the final whistle (had his watch stopped?!) and Uruguay got a second consolation goal, but the Dutch held on for the win.

Though the result was widely expected, Uruguay by no means disgraced themselves and in fact probably won over a few fans. IMHO, I would rather have a team like Uruguay which under-promises and over-delivers rather than the other big names which went out with a whimper (Italy, France and England come to mind, and some may include Brazil and Argentina in this, but I would like to give them the benefit of doubt).


Germany - Spain

 Another widely anticipated match, though I thought Germany would prevail purely on current form and the sheer relentlessness of their attack and solid defense.

Spain started off slowly and their game plan emerged in the opening few minutes. Deny possession to the Germans was their goal and the statistics at the end of 20 minutes said it all, Spain had 70% possession of the ball. Spain's passing was a treat to watch, though they were not looking too threatening from a scoring perspective. On the few occasions Germany got the ball, they tried too hard to penetrate and ended up giving possession back to Spain.

Germany though continuing to be disciplined seemed to have no answer to Spain's tactics, in fact I thought that they did not grasp the game plan for the entire first half and a good portion of the second half. Both teams had some chances, however Spain was now looking much more assured. The header by Puyol was bang on target and Spain went 1-0 up. Now it all started to unravel for Germany and it was evident in the frustrated looks that were being exchanged on the field. Germany now went all out on attack, but Spain by now with the lead did an excellent job of defending it.


The final score was more of a testament to Spain's tactical victory and Germany will be wondering how it all went so badly wrong for them. Maybe they were looking ahead to the finals instead of trying to beat Spain ... A fair result for Germany for the team they came with, however with the major teams being out of the competition, they lost a golden chance to go all the way.


On to the finals !