Euro 2012: The Final

Well it’s here, Spain v. Italy in the 2012 European Championships.  Spain has squeaked in against an impressive if not effective Portugal while Italy stormed past Germany in a tactically brilliant performance of their own.  Which side wins will be a strange result of two extremely different tactical philosophies.

Italy is renowned for their defensive strength and counterattacking abilities.  But since Cesare Prandelli took over the Azzurri in 2010 they’ve seemed to be a more adventurous, attacking side.  This “new” Italy may have been a bit of a paper tiger though.  Italy finished first in their qualifying group with 10 points to spare while only conceding two goals in 10 games, all while “rebuilding” after their poor performance in the 2010 World Cup.  Maybe it wasn’t different tactics, maybe it was just their opponents.  Qualifying matches include everyone, even the Faroe Islands.  The two most difficult opponents the Azzurri have played in this year’s Euros (Spain and Germany) have seen them play a style that’s very similar to their historical Catenaccio.  Defensive stability over offensive frivolity.  But it’s served them well.

Germany’s high energy offense created a lot of chances as expected but the Azzurri knew how to handle it and in the end, for all of Germany’s chances they couldn’t score until a 90th minute penalty.  The opening game against Spain was remarkably similar in terms of opportunities.  And while they started their tournament with a strange formation their defense was again a rock that was only penetrated successfully once.

Spain on the other hand has played their usual ball hogging, passing clinic style of dominating play that has served them well for the last 4 years.  With the absence of David Villa they’ve been a lot less effective than in past years but they’re overall play has seen them make it to another final.

It’s almost perfect how much the two sides play into each other’s hands.  Similar to José Mourinho’s Inter vs. Pep Guardiola’s Barcelona back in 2010 one side will dominate possession while the other will patiently wait for their chances.

I'm calling it right now, it's going to penalties.

And Italy is going to win.

Two world renowned styles of play, two world class goal keepers, two playmakers with experience to burn, and two sides that have a point to make.  It’s time to kick back and enjoy another one, and if you’re in Minnesota remember to buy your beer on Saturday.

Cheers!