Euro 2012: For all the Marbles
Well my undefeated streak of Euro Cup predictions is over. I expected Spain to Win, but what about Italy stunning the Germans with two goals from “Super” Mario Balotelli to win 2-1. Even though Italy hasn’t lost to Germany on a Grand tournament in ages, on paper I thought Germany was a better team going into the match. Clearly the German defense was not all that it was stacked up to be. They make a terrible mistake on the first goal and the defense could also be blamed for the second goal.
So now on to the finals. The one question we all asking is who will win the Euro Cup come Sunday. Lets look at all angles on this match up. The two teams have squared off before in this tournament and both teams fought to a 1-1 draw. So if I was to base my decision on that match I would say Spain wins. In that match up Spain played like Spain. They had the majority of the possession and thus majority of the attempts. They just happened to underestimate a good player who is aging and he scored.
However, one reason why I think Italy has a chance is that every time Italy plays they look better. Minus their performances to Spain and Croatia they have been on the rise while still being the masters of survival. Spain on the other hand have just been on a flat line in terms of performance. They haven’t been bad by any means but they haven’t improved or go into top gear. Also Spain needs to have a legitimate striker on the pitch and not their usual 6 midfielder spread to win because I don’t think they will score without a striker and I believe Italy are better at penalties than Spain because of GiGi Buffon at goalie.
So with all of this said I think the winner of the Euro Cup will be Spain. I think when both teams are good you’re coach makes a big difference and it is a fact Vicente Del Bosque is right now a better manager than
Cesare Prandelli.
By:Michael Asiffo
