The definition of World Class

Last nights semi final in Durban will be remembered for Carlos Puyol’s fantastic header, but the performances from the 2 best midfielders in world football will be etched in the memories of everyone who witnessed it. The way Xavi and his Catalan compatriot Iniesta controlled the game was a model example to the rest of the world. These 2 players are at the peak of their ability and have given the term ‘world class’ a true meaning.

There have been so many players over the years that have never gone on to win footballs’ biggest prizes and accolades but these 2 are on the verge of making football history. Spain has never won the World Cup and not once have the reigning European Champions gone on to lift the trophy. The statisticians from the World Cup have stated that Xavi touches the ball every 46 seconds on average which is astonishing, whilst Iniesta was involved in every threatening move the Spaniards made.

Credit should not be taken away from Germany as their side have been brilliant to watch in this tournament and with youth on their side they will be back bigger, better and stronger for the Euros. It is the Spaniard’s time and they are embracing the challenge each round is presenting. It is unlikely that we will see a generation of players this good for another decade or so and it is easy to understand why they are so instrumental in both Barcelona and Spain’s fortunes.

Xavi Hernandez is the epitome of a modern day play maker whose range of passing is simply outstanding. Whilst Andres Iniesta could simply play anywhere on the pitch, he is that good. These players deserve all the plaudits and accolades they get in the coming months and years. They are truly exceptional players and it is just a shame we have to wait until Sunday to see them play again.

Spain vs Germany

Holland awaits the winners of tonight’s eagerly anticipated second semi final between Spain and Germany. The game should be open and full of attacking possibilities which as a neutral is exactly what you want to see. The Germans are the leading scorers with 13 so far and although Thomas Mueller is missing they will go into the game full of confidence. Meanwhile the Spanish have not really fired on all cylinders as yet, David Villa aside.

Joachim Loew will hope to continue where they left off against Argentina. Such convincing displays have already left the majority of fans already believing that they have won it before the game has kicked off. This will surely not transmit to the team but confidence will be sky high. It is a real shame that Mueller is missing as he has been one of the stars of the tournament thus far but with Schweinsteiger, Ozil and Klose there they will pose a real threat to the Spanish defence.

Meanwhile la Furia Roja will require the same improvement from the last game if they are to worry Germany. Their performances haven’t been quite as expected prior to the competition but they are picking up pace at the right time. The main question will be whether Del Bosque persists with Torres or opts for a 5 man midfield. I would continue with Torres despite his form as Villa needs the space he generates with his clever off the ball running.

Although the Germans are favourites going into the game I have a sneaking feeling that the Spanish will conquer this evening. They will not have to endure the rigid defending they have encountered in every game tonight so should have gaps to exploit. However, they have looked suspect at the back and will need big performances from Pique and Puyol if they are to emerge victorious. Whatever the result football fans around the world are hoping to see an open, free-scoring game that both sides are more than capable of producing.