The quarterfinals are over and finally we are left with the four best teams of the competition. In last four we have Germany which has scored most number of goals, Italy which has the best goal difference in the tournament and only goal conceded is an own goal, Portugal which defeated the much fancied English and Dutch side with so much in the tank and France which has risen from the ashes of miserable group stage with resurgence of Zidane.

The journey so far of these teams is an interesting tale in itself; Germans were weak in defense and had a miserable run of matches under Klinsmann in last two years. In the tournament they seemed to find their attacking instinct and the defense has not conceded from open play since the first match in the tournament.

Italy on the other hand landed on German soil in the shadow of corruption scandal back home where four of the leading clubs including winner and runners-up Juventus and AC Milan are facing corruption charges. Most of the first 11 may be looking for new jobs if these clubs will be relegated to Serie B.

Germany vs Italy

The match has all the ingredients of a European cliff-hanger. Germany has been superb in attack in this tournament and Italy in defense. Both teams will be hard to break and to my mind the key of the match lies in the hands of Totti and Ballack.

If we compare the players on both sides it seems that both are equally matched Luca Toni must be encouraged by his two goals against Ukraine, while Lehmann will be taking confidence from his superb performance in penalties against Argentina.

The battle in the Midfield will be the crucial one, it will be between Ballack and Borowski of Germany as Frings is suspended and AC Milan duo of Pirlo and Gattuso. The couple which will dominate the encounter will ensure better possession for the team hence more opportunities to dictate the pace of the game.

In attack Germany will feature golden boot contender Klose and speedy Podolski while Italian back line will be defended by excellent Cannavaro and Buffon under the bars.

France vs Portugal

This will be all together different semi-final compare to the Germany-Italy affair as this match will have more style, trick and elegance about it rather than organization and structure of other semi-final.

Henry will again have opportunity to test Chelsea defender Carvalho and Zidane will encounter his old club mate at Real Madrid Luis Figo.

In the midfield it will be Viera and Makalele against Deco and Maniche. The Portuguese duo has more speed and skill while the French duo is technically very good and physically very strong.

Both teams so far has gone with the same formation 4-5-1 in every match and the balance of the match can be decided by two youths playing their first world cup for either side- Ronaldo for Portugal and Ribery for France. So far both have played well for their respective teams and one moment of brilliance can be a defining moment in the match of two equals.

Who ever goes through to the finals, at this stage one thing is for certain. The cup is staying in Europe.