Euro 2016 Semi-Finals
The semi-finals of the European Championship are set. Portugal vs Wales, and Germany against France. Each have arrived in different ways but one thing is clear, each of them have arrived playing the best they have all tournament.
Portugal shrugged off Poland in penalties after looking more threatening for the entirety of the game. Wales dominated an arguably more talented Belgian side with a 3–1 victory. Germany finally defeated Italy in penalties after feeling the swift hand of defeat from the Italians time after time. France beat sweet little Iceland badly with a 5–2 dominating victory.
Wales — Portugal
The most anticipated aspect of this side of the bracket has come to fruition with the matchup of Real Madrid teammates Cristiano Ronaldo and Gareth Bale. One forwarding a team centric performance in Bale. The other seemingly oozing with more selfish persuasions with every kick of the ball.
It’s a matchup of teams highlighted by a star each. The beauty of Wales and their advancement is that while Bale has played great, his teammates are propelling them from what is in reality an average team to another level. Without the amazing play of his teammates Bale would be left in isolation, and a much earlier exit at this years Euros.
Portugal on the other hand have been squeaking results by to get to this point. They hadn’t even looked good by the eye test until their game with Poland. A 1–0 edging of Croatia is their boasting of the tournament. While draws in the group stages left everyone wondering what their ceiling really was.
The matchup is exciting because of the star players, but has real potential to be a dud if teammates from both sides don’t show up. I like the momentum Wales bring into the matchup. As a result I think they’ll advance to the final, 2–1 in extra time.
France — Germany
Two footballing giants meeting in the semi-final of the Euros, could anyone ask for anything more narrative rich and entertaining? I’m certainly excited for this game. France is playing their best of the tournament, and Germany have momentum unparalleled in their history. Defeating Italy was a big deal for Germany, and their play in this game should reflect that.
France’s stylistic tendencies have hurt them in the past. But with Pogba, Peyet, and Griezman playing at their best, the possibilities are endless for the French side. Their key vulnerability is their back line, which looked awful against Iceland. They’re just fortunate that Germany’s attack has been lacking without a great tournament from Thomas Muller.
In the end this game is really a toss up. If France’s stars show up they could win 3–1. If Pogba doesn’t control the midfield that well, Peyet isn’t creating, and the back line doesn’t improve, Germany could make it a long night for France. I really think France has hit a stride. Germany will be without Bastian, Mats Hummels, and Sami Khedira. Three massive defensive players that can control the midfield and back line. Despite their back line’s inept play against Iceland, I think France will win 2–0. Which sets up a Wales — France finale, Euro has been great, enjoy the semi-finals everyone.
