Guus Hiddink may be the miracle man of international football, but he won’t want to shout too loudly about his record in semi-finals. Typically, he guides his sides to the last four and then, just as everyone starts getting overexcited, promptly loses. This time, it’s Spain who are going to bring the big old Dutchman to tears. Here’s why…
Nine reasons why Spain will beat Russia…
1. Spain are unbeaten in their last seven meetings with Russia, winning four and drawing three.
2. Not since a 2-1 win in Moscow in 1971, have Russia (formerly the Soviet Union) enjoyed victory against Spain.
3. The sides met in the group stages of this summer’s tournament, with Spain emerging as convincing 4-1 victors.
4. On the three previous occasions that teams have met twice in the same tournament (Portugal/Greece Euro 2004, Brazil/Turkey World Cup 2002 and Germany/Czech Republic Euro 1996) the side that won the first contest have always gone on to win the second as well.
5. Spain’s goalless draw with Italy extended their unbeaten run to twenty matches. Aragones’ men
Once again, Adrien Brody’s Joachim Loew’s side managed to claw their way to their sixth European Champions final, despite being the second best team on the pitch last night.
Seeing as nature decided the worldwide audience didn’t deserve to see the Miroslav Klose goal that put Germany 2-1 up, you can check it out by clicking the box above.
Based on last night, who will get a step closer to Moscow?
It looks as if the Manchester Utd/ Barcelona is a done deal, but what will happen in the other semi? Arsenal looked the better side against Liverpool last night, but the Mersey Reds will be comfortable knowing they don’t have to score in the second leg, and only a fool would bet against them in this competition.
Meanwhile, Fenerbahce have made it difficult for Chelsea at the Bridge - can they do enough to progress in the second leg? (Avram, hanging onto his job by a thread, will certainly hope so)
So who do you think will be playing in the other semi? Votes and comments below, please.
