I agree that Germany is the prototype for team play. The German side is much stronger as a team than a group of individuals.
And yet, this Spanish team doesn’t play like the typical Latin team. Torres may be their greatest raw individual talent (though he hasn’t been especially productive during the Euro), but he seems to be a team player. For example, against Italy I think) I saw him center a ball when he had a chance for a goal to the near post (bad angle, though). While I prefer strikers to drive the ball whenever they get a glimmer of space, Torres made a “team” move, not a “me” move.
Since I don’t watch La Liga, I haven’t seen Villa before. He looks like a pure striker. Impressive play. However, the Fox Soccer Channel just reported that Villa won’t play. This means Torres needs to step up and Güiza will probably get more time.
Anyway, I thought the Spanish side showed a lot of controlled passing, coupled with individual brilliance. Add their speed advantage over Germany and that’s a dangerous formula. Spain also showed a lot of disciplined defense.
BTW, I just saw a report that Ljungberg is retiring from international play, though he’ll keep playing for West Ham.
- Very true - and in this department many teams fail. Especially teams blessed with tons of individual quality. Germany does not, despite their obvious resources of talent player wise and therefore they are dangerous like hell.
On the other hand, Spain is not to be underestimated. This time round, we've seen a different Spain. Like you put it:
“And yet, this Spanish team doesn’t play like the typical Latin team.”
No they don't. I see much more of structure, dogged determination and team effort than Spain usually manifest.
“BTW, I just saw a report that Ljungberg is retiring from international play, though he’ll keep playing for West Ham.”
- Nice to find out people outside of Sweden notice these kind of things. Anyhow, a mature decision I'd say. Ljungberg is a true fighter, but after having been viciously attacked on the left flank for ages, it's perfectly understandable that he now agrees to do so only in Premier League.
In any case, both Germany and Spain deserves to win. I'm convinced this match will be one worth watching.
Summer greetings from Gothenburg, Sweden!