The Power of Twelve

We finally have the line-ups for finals. Italy and France came through in their battle against Germany and Portugal respectively. It was bag of mixed feelings for me. I loved Italy beating Germany, but France getting through was a bitter pill to swallow. I can only hope now that France will lose in finals.

Germany tried valiantly to defeat Italy. They have the home advantage, but their tide broke against the Great Wall of Italy and The Power of Twelve. Italian defence was great, especially Cannavaro. I became a huge fan of him watching this world cup. Everytime Germany looked dangerous, Cannavaro was there to control the threat. He was simply amazing. He stood like a Wall before the Italian goal. Italian also had Power of Twelve to their advantage. Every twelve years since 1970, they make it to World Cup finals, and this time was no exception. The goal in the end by Grosso was a master-piece. This game was easily the best one in this world cup.

Though, I donot like France's game, they deserved to win the semi-finals. I was surprised by the performance on Portugal. They didn't seem to have confidence that they can score a goal. Everytime they reached the 'D' near France's goal, they just dive and appeal for penalty. It was ridiculous. A player like Ronaldo, who has immense skill, should try to score goals in legitimate ways than using such devious means.

Statistics do not give a clear verdict to either teams in the finals. I can only hope Italy can beat France. If they play anywhere close to what they did against Germany, France has no chance.