Spain set for Holland Showdown
Puyol nets the winner
Carles Puyol secured Spain passage into their first World Cup final with a thunderous second-half header to beat Germany after an fascinating match in Durban.The Euro 2008 winners dominated possession but initially struggled to create clear openings against Joachim Low’s impressive young side yet it was far from a classic Spain performance.
The game was predictable from the offset as Spain dominated possession, Xavi and Iniesta attempting to pierce their opponents’ defence with vision and incisive close passing, while Germany looked to hit back on the counter-attack with their powerful attacks.
However the winning goal came from Puyol where he showed great determination and agility by heading home Xavi’s corner with 17 minutes remaining.
Spain coach Vicente Del Bosque hailed his “extraordinary” players after they booked a place in the World Cup final.
Del Bosque said: “All of our players were extraordinary – but we still have a match to play. We know Dutch football and it will be very tough in the final.”
He added: “From defence through to attack I think we played a great game.
“We’ve got another game in front of us, let’s see if we are able to control the ball. We’re in good shape physically, so let’s see if we can win.”
Spain will now play Holland in the World Cup final at Soccer City on Sunday. The final could be a classic as both teams will compete to create history as a new champion will enter the record books. It really will be a tight affair as both teams have different strengths. The Spain team is full of world class players such as Villa, Xavi and Iniesta who have quality, technique and bring entertainment with their slick passing game. The Holland team are united team with team of hard workers such as Dirk Kuyt with his endless running and also have the world class ability of Robben who can win a match on his own.
It really is a tough match to call but I think the quality of the Spanish team will be too much for the Dutch. I am going for Spain to win 3 – 1.
