Wednesday, July 7, 2010
Match: 62
Germany 0 – 1 Spain
Durban Stadium - Durban
Place watched: Johnny’s Tavern, Kansas City, MO
The last week day match of the 2010 World Cup was a good one on paper. Two of the most offensive-minded teams playing each other with a berth in the Final as the stakes, is as good as it gets! This was also a replay of the 2008 European Championship final in which Spain triumphed 1 – 0.
The match started a bit slower than I though it might. Germany, especially looked a bit tentative and not at all like the team we have seen throughout this tournament. Spain had a terrific scoring chance in the 6th minute when a through-pass put David Villa in on goal. His sliding effort was saved, but it was a taste of things to come. Just 8 minutes later, a short-corner was played to Andres Iniesta who drove a cross that found the head of Carles Puyol. His shot was high, but Germany looked rattled.
At the half-time break the teams were level. It would have been interesting to sit in on the half-time speeches by the managers. Whatever was said seemed to energize both sides. Spain, again had the better chances and were unlucky to not score. Second half German sub Toni Kroos also put a shot on goal that Iker Casillas turned away.
Finally, in the 73rd minute the deadlock was broken. Another Spanish corner found Puyol again. This time, his driven header found net.
After the celebration, Spain dug in and refuted all German attacks on their goal. One had the feeling Germany would score, but it was not to be. Spain were through and would face twice bridesmaid, never bride Holland. This result guaranteed a first-time World Cup winner.
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