Germany vs Italy Euro Cup 2012 Betting Picks + Odds
Germany will look to end their major tournaments winless streak against Italy when the two meet in the second Euro 2012 semifinal matchup on Thursday’s in Warsaw.
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Die Mannschaft has yet to beat the Italians in seven previous attempts, with the most recent meeting being a 2-0 semifinal loss after extra-time at the 2006 World Cup.
The two neighbors have met just one time since, with the match ending in a draw.
When: Thursday, June 28, 2012 at 2:45 PM EST
Where: National Stadium, Warsaw
TV: ESPN
Line: Italy (+310), Germany, -0.5 (-145), Draw (+265)
However, the form shown by Joachim Loew’s side at this year’s Euro and even further back, suggests the Germans just might be on the brink of ending that horrible streak of bad luck.
Since losing to eventual winners Spain in the semifinals of the 2010 World Cup, Loew’s men have won 15 consecutive competitive fixtures, which include an undefeated run through this year’s “group of death”, which began with a quarterfinal drubbing of defensive-minded Greece.
Die Mannschaft netted four goals against the 2004 European champions in that match, and have nine goals total in the campaign.
However, Italy will pose a far greater threat than the Greeks. At least defensively.
So far, the Azzurri have conceded a meager two goals in four matches, and held Spain to a 1-1 draw in their opening fixture.
Consequently, Italy’s focus on defense has stunted their offensive efforts though, resulting in just four goals. [ad-3678122]
This is a much different Italian squad than the one that we are used to seeing in tournaments past.
Still, Italy has enough offense, especially from chief playmaker Andrea Pirlo, to test the Germans’ slightly inconsistent defense.
Nevertheless, Germany’s Manuel Neuer will be there to save them in goal if needed.
If the Italians want to advance, they will need to get out in front first, so they can settle into their stingy defensive posture.
But if they allow the Germans to open the scoring, they in trouble as Die Mannschaft will begin to control possession, forcing Italy to take chances, resulting in Germany counter attack that could deliver blow after blow.
Matt’s Free Pick– Germany–This will be a cagey match up, with the teams likely remaining scoreless through the first 45 minutes. However, I expect it will be all Germany in the second half, as they figure out a way to crack the Italians defense en route to a 3-1 win.
