As much Northern Ireland were brilliant in defeating Ukraine, Germany were disappointing when held to a draw goalless draw against Poland. It is arguable that Ukraine are one of the weakest teams in the tournament but the Irish really put them to the sword with some nifty plays and combative spirit. It will be different against the Germans though as they will be starved of the ball for much of the match. Their compact organization will allow them to contain the multiple waves of German attack but the question is whether they can keep all of them at bay for the entire 90 mins.
Germany could have easily lost the match against the Poles if the latter had taken one of several good opportunities to score. It seems to me from the first 2 matches that Germany are not only doing some soul-searching, but more importantly are lacking that extra motivation that makes players overachieve and produce that touch of magic that makes a difference at this level. Against Poland, the players controlled possession, huffed and puffed but seem to lack that desire in the final third to fight over the ball.
Germany being Germany, I expect a better match from Low's men; they might be made to wait but should finally find the ignition switch that makes the difference in the end.
In the other match, Poland should be too much for Ukraine and I expect Lewandowski to have a big match.
In Group D, Spain and Croatia will probably battle to a draw that suits both teams and I fancy another draw in the match between the Czech and the woeful Turks, both teams really being in the lower echelon all the teams in France.
Win: Germany, Poland
Draw: Spain/Croatia. Czech Rep v/s Turkey
Germany could have easily lost the match against the Poles if the latter had taken one of several good opportunities to score. It seems to me from the first 2 matches that Germany are not only doing some soul-searching, but more importantly are lacking that extra motivation that makes players overachieve and produce that touch of magic that makes a difference at this level. Against Poland, the players controlled possession, huffed and puffed but seem to lack that desire in the final third to fight over the ball.
Germany being Germany, I expect a better match from Low's men; they might be made to wait but should finally find the ignition switch that makes the difference in the end.
In the other match, Poland should be too much for Ukraine and I expect Lewandowski to have a big match.
In Group D, Spain and Croatia will probably battle to a draw that suits both teams and I fancy another draw in the match between the Czech and the woeful Turks, both teams really being in the lower echelon all the teams in France.
Win: Germany, Poland
Draw: Spain/Croatia. Czech Rep v/s Turkey
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