Spain vs Germany (Stuttgart, 18:00)
Spain and Germany have been the most consistent teams in the competition thus far, and many believe the winner of this match could win it all!
Spain conceded early in their Round of 16 match. Still, they swiftly recovered to secure a convincing victory over Georgia. Similarly, Germany enjoyed a comfortable win against Denmark in their previous game despite encountering a setback earlier in the tournament.
The home fans had high expectations for Germany to dominate the group stage, but the team was held to a draw by Switzerland in their third game, preventing a perfect run into the knockout stages.
Round of 16 Performance
Spain defeated Georgia 4-1 on their path to the quarter-final after conceding early on in the 18th minute due to an own goal. The returning Rodri made an instant impact, scoring towards the end of the first half to settle any Spanish nerves. Spain’s performance in this match showed just how strong their squad depth is, as various players stepped up in this stellar performance. Spain’s goal contributions during this tournament have been relatively evenly spread out, with no particular player stealing the spotlight.
On the other hand, Germany had to defeat Denmark, who came into the group without a single win in the group stages. Youngsters Jamal Musiala and Florian Wirtz were key again, showing their fans how bright the future might be. The Germans were exceptionally well organised in defence as they were impenetrable with their clean sheet. Antonio Rudiger, who scored his own goal in Germany’s first game, was the man of the match against Denmark, leading his team with the confidence of his home fans.
Match Analysis
The upcoming game will see two of the best coaches in international football go head-to-head with their tactics. Both teams try to keep the ball to themselves for as long as possible and refuse to have the lesser share of possession. While Spain’s style of play has changed slightly over the years, it has adapted very well to the requirements of modern football.
The Spaniards will use their young and talented squad to the fullest extent by exerting as much pressure as possible. They will also see players return from injury and suspension to strengthen their already-developed squad.
The Germans, like the Spaniards, have a balanced team with quality in all areas of the pitch. While their attack and defence have been decent this tournament, many would agree that their midfield has taken them to this position. Their midfield has been superb, with the likes of Toni Kross, Jamal Musiala, and Ilkay Gundogan all playing their roles to near perfection. Germany will use their midfield creativity to exploit any vulnerabilities in Spain’s defence and potentially find a way for their attackers to seal the game.
Players to look out for
We could highlight many players. However, these three are instrumental to the team's success.
- Alvaro Morata: The 31-year-old is one of the most underrated players on this Spanish side. He is just two goals shy of becoming Spain’s third all-time top goal-scorer, and with his consistency for the national team, he might break that record in this tournament.
With him combining his technique with emerging prospects like Nico Williams and Lamine Yamal supporting him, it wouldn’t be surprising if he turns up big in this quarter-final tie.
- Rodri: The Spanish midfielder might be the most important member of the squad for both his club and country. His control and distribution play a key role in dictating the game, perfectly fitting Spain's style.
Rodri has always been a pivot who can turn up in any given situation. The Manchester City midfielder is especially known for stepping up in big games. What bigger occasion than his team’s toughest challenge of the tournament so far?
- Toni Kroos: While most eyes are on the younger members of this German squad as they usher in a new era for their nation, this experienced midfielder could emerge as the hero for his country.
With Kroos set to retire after this tournament for Germany, each match could be his last. The midfielder will give it everything he's got to script a fairytale ending for his career, so we've chosen him as the player to watch.
Match Prediction
The quarter-final will undoubtedly be a nerve-wracking game for both sets of fans and might end in a close contest decided by the thinnest of margins. Both teams are very strong on the attack, so we can expect goals on both ends. However, one team needs to come out on top. If we consider the current overall form, Spain has the advantage, and Germany has the home fans backing them to make them equally formidable.
This is tough, but Spain might clinch the win in the end, knocking the home side out on their home soil. However, if they are to achieve this, they will need to keep up their newly found standards.