Quarter-Finals: Germany v Italy, 2nd July, 8pm

[JJ1532]

Another good game to look forward to in the last 8.

Germany clicked into gear by demolishing Slovakia. They look very strong at the moment, rock solid at the back and a little bit of a goal threat starting to emerge. This however is possibly the biggest test they might face if they want to win the tournament.

Italy, like Germany, look impenetrable at the back and have a decent counter attacking threat. They saw off Spain and they too look set to face possibly the biggest hurdle on route to a potential tournament win.

Shame this is only a Quarter-Final, would have loved to see this be the final. Oh well. So, Germany to win? Or will the Italians nick it?

 

[Chris FGR]

As long as Löw doesn't make the same tactical fuck ups he made in 2012, then Germany might edge this. It will be a very tight game though, two strong defences so far but can't see it being goalless. Definitely tie of the round.

 

[Big Bird]

1-1 aet. Italy on pens.

 

[Master D]

Almost the whole Italian team are on bookings and 5 of the German players are. At least one of those 3 Italian centre backs is bound to get a yellow in this match. I hope there's a shitload of players suspended for the SF, just to highlight what a nonsense this rule is.

 

[Liam_SWFC]

Can't wait for this again Italy involved in the tie of the round, I think the Germans are better than Spain though so Italy will have to get it spot on again. The Germans have improved as the tournemant has gone on and look the favorites to win the final next week, think this will be a really tactical game with it being 1-1 after extra time and the Germans taking it on penalties.

 

[SALTIRE]

1 - 1 and Italy grab a winner in ET.

 

[Stevencc]

Here it is, the clash of the big dogs. The Italian Greyhounds vs the German Shepherds. Who gets the bone and who gets boned?

 

[The Unbeliever]

Hoping for a good game, but it's to close to call.
Will be cheering on Italy just because it's Germany they are playing.

 

[GodsGift]

Watching this Italy team against technically superior sides is porn for those who appreciate the art of defending.

 

[Stevencc]

Alessandro "the cucumber" Florenzi.

 

[GodsGift]

Watching this Italy team against technically superior sides is porn for those who appreciate the art of defending.

Saying that, the game's been boring as fuck so far.

 

[mente captus]

boateng is unbelievable

 

[Stevencc]

Another beautiful long range Bonucci pass.

 

[RavenBish]

Conte really is the greatest if he can beat Germany with a midfield of Giaccherini, Parolo and Sturaro

 

[Liam_SWFC]

As expected a game of chess this one, hardly any chances in this half and if it continues it could be a long night this. Fantastic defending on show though and it has to be commended, it definitely needs a goal.

 

[Storzy]

Bit boring this. From a neurtals perspective it would be nice if Germany would revert back to their natural formation and get Draxler on.

 

[Storzy]

"If Italy win he won't be playing in the semi-final."

Whereas if they lose....?

 

[mente captus]

italians are looking tired

 

[Liam_SWFC]

Germany are dominating the ball but still not looking like scoring, if they stay patient then surely Italy will lose concentration at some point.

 

[Liam_SWFC]

And there is it Ozil with the goal! 1-0 Germany! Italy going to have to come out now this could suit Germany perfectly.

 

[Stevencc]

Smart pass from Gomez in the build up.

 

[Stevencc]

Buffon

 

[G.B]

wtf is boateng playing at there

 

[Stevencc]

boateng is unbelievable

That handball certainly was!

 

[Liam_SWFC]

1-1 Bonnuci equalises from the spot great penalty. Ridiculously given away by Boateng why his arms are up there I don't know. Back to square 1 now.

 

[SALTIRE]

My prediction is still on. Wonder if it will come to pass.

 

[TractorBoys]

First penalty shootout of the tournament, then!

 

[Stevencc]

First penalty shootout of the tournament, then!

Poland vs Switzerland...

 

[GodsGift]

Portugal v Poland...

 

[TractorBoys]