Published 6/26/2012 9:18:57 AM by Shane Barrow from soccermogul

The semifinals at Euro 2012 are upon us and we definitely have a pair of intriguing matches at hand.  Thursday's semifinal has World Champions Spain facing off against neighbors Portugal while Friday is the super power showdown of Germany and Italy.

Portugal - Spain
Nobody will deny that Spain are the clear favorites here.  Most feel only Germany has the firepower to derail the defending champions.  Not so fast.  Portugal are in fine form and nobody knows Spain better.

If anyone can pull an upset it is Portugal.  Cristiano Ronaldo is in good form and has the talent to win a game at any time. Coupled with Nani on the other flank, Portugal has the quality to make Spain pay on the counter.

But seriously now.....Spain is Spain.  The best in the world.  More class and talent than any other.  If they are on Spain wins.  Their midfield is completely dominant and if Torres can finish this match belongs to Spain.

Don't be surprised if Portugal makes a game of it.  They'll need to push hard to avoid giving up an early goal, but if they survive the opening 20 minutes anything is possible.


Germany - Italy
Everyone's favorite to meet Spain has been Germany and they haven't disappointed.  They will have their hands full here though as Italy is quality.  Italy survived the bore tactics from England to advance on penalty kicks.  They definitely have the midfield to give the Germans fits.

My main question with Italy will be their legs.  The schedule was hardly fair to Italy as Germany gets a full two more days rest heading into this semifinal and Italy also had to go through overtime and the stress of penalties.  Do the Italian legs give out in the second half of a pulsating affair?

Germany is loaded and would have to be favorites here especially with the extra rest.  The offense is clicking and Italy will have their hands full with Ozil and Klose.  Italy has always been know for their superior defensive skills. It will take all their talent on Friday, but I think the Germans head to the final.

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