So the biggest game of the Euro 2012 Championships is nearly upon us – with a 7.45PM kick-off (GMT), Germany face Portugal in a clash of the heavyweights.
Germany are many people’s favourites to win the Euro’s this year, with Spain also one of the favourites. Portugal are more of a dark horse for many, and personally I feel they are too reliant on the talent, and goals, of Cristiano Ronaldo. The likes of Nani et al don’t really match up for me, especially when compared to the likes of Ozil, Schweinsteiger, Podolski, Muller, etc.
Germany come into this match with a full squad to pick from, an ominous sign for Portugal, with Phillip Lahm and Sami Khedira back in full training. Mertesacker took a slight knock in training a few days ago but is expected to start the game for the Germans. Portugal too have a full squad to choose from, with Man United winger Nani fit again after nursing a foot injury.
Portugal have been in pretty bad form recently, drawing 0-0 against Poland and Macedonia before losing 3-1 to Turkey. Germany meanwhile have been patchy in their recent friendlies but these have been with some very experimental sides, and on route to the Euro’s they won 10 from 10 matches.
For this reason Germany are my favourites to beat Portugal, maybe by a clear 2 goal margin. I’m hoping for a fast paced match, and you should definitely try your best to make sure you watch Germany vs Portugal as its sure to be an explosive game – Germany will want to get off to a flyer and live up to the hype which has been surrounding the team!
