Soccer Diaries: III

Semi final I- Italy vs Germany!!

One of the most exciting match I have watched in a long long time! And to say that the result made me Euphoric would be an understatement. Being a huge Italian fan, for over last 15 years the victory was sweeter than honey. The teams were very evenly matched untill the 90th minute after which the balance tilted in favour of the Azzuri! Italians were unlucky as they had two shots recocheting from the post in the first two minutes of the extra time. However a goal there would have fired up the germans and given them a chance to come back into the game.

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The Italian game in the extra time was very unlike Italian and it was thrilling for a change. For a team that plays with one forward - playing with 3 forwards and 2 playmekers was very unlike themselves but very cool. It showed their desperation of not entering the Penalties where fate has never been with them - and it paid off. The germans on the other hand seemed to be taking the game to PKs riding on the success of Lehmann in the previous game. Amazing play from the set pieces in the dying game created what can be considered one of the best goal of the tournament for the Italians!

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One interesting reaction amongst friends and media I observe is of Shock / Upset!! Clearly people didn't seem to have done their research as the result wasn't totally unexpected for me. Now consider these facts and you'll see for yourself!

1) Germany had the home support going for them and recent form.

BUT

2) Italy hasn't lost a match since October 2004

3)In head to head record with Germany Italy is way ahead of Germany with 13 wins.

4) Germany has never beaten Italy in a World cup match

5) Geramany has last beaten a European team in 2000 when they beat England to win a major tourney!

6) Italy are yet to concede a goal in this world cup except an OWN goal.

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Italy played bravely in the match went out of their way , tried new things and now they seem to be on a roll. If the Ultimate glory beckons them , only time will tell.