Vier oder weniger (Preview of the semi-finals)

From here on out it will be nothing but colossal clashes of world heavyweights. Germany and Italy will begin this round with some interesting statistics. Germany has never lost in Dortmund and Italy has never lost to Germany in World Cup play. The Italian back line has been impressive, allowing a grand total of zero goals with the exception of one own goal. With Nesta out, however, this could present a bit of difficulty. However, with a back line full of other players playing in the notoriously goal-stingy Serie A, Podolski, Klose and co. should have their challenges. Germany will need to tighten things up a bit in the back, but they should be inspired by the PK stand of Lehmann and Klinesmann has shown that he has his players prepared for their opponent so the worry for German fans should be minimal. Both Buffon and Lehmann are excellent goalkeepers and certainly two of the best who have attended the tournament. At the midfield, Ballack simply needs to show why he's wearing the captain band. To date he has been capable but far from impressive. Germany simply needs more output from this world class player. The Germans will miss Thorsten Frings, suspended after throwing a punch after the conclusion of the Argentina game. At the front line, the is almost even. Italy and Germany both look formidable up front, with Italy perhaps taking a slight advantage on set pieces and timing of runs and Germany better at positioning and pressing the attack. Both teams will come out playing cautionusly and that could be a mistake as whoever scores first in this one will win. Germany will need extra time to do it, but they squeak by Italy 1-0 and roll into the finals on a surge of support from the home crowd. Should this one go to PKs, the advantage is decidedly in Germany's favor; Germany has never lost a WC match on PKs while Italy has never won one.

France has surprised everyone with the late onset of their momentum. After a poor showing in group play, this team suddenly appears able to be able to do no wrong. In the process of reaching the semis, they have dismissed a stacked Spanish side 3-1 and beat Brazil in a huge 1-0 upset win. Portugal will be happy to have Deco back in the lineup and, at this stage, every weapon will be useful to the Portugese. Based on the talent that Portugal will be putting on the field it doesn't make any sense at all, but France will pull this one off in a 2-1 win that inches them that much closer to hoisting the FIFA trophy.