[TheShark72]

Now it gets interesting....!!

PORTUGAL V GERMANY

The Portuguese have looked very impressive in the 2 games they needed to win, whereas Germany have looked anything but impressive struggling to overcome Poland and Austria whilst being put to the sword by Croatia.

However the Germans, much like the Italians, normally do just enough to survive without ever really setting the world alight - can they do the same against Portugal?

I dont think so. Portugal just look stronger in every department, and with Frings almost definitely out tonight, and Podolski carrying an injury though expected to play, the German midfield is depeleted, with Ballack having to carry the fight against Deco, Moutinho solely. Then of course there is Ronaldo, who makes a big habit of scoring past Jens Lehman, as well as the not insignificant threat of Nuno Gomes up front for Portugal.

Germany do look steady if unspectacular at the back, but Croatia showed that they can be breached, and you must acknowledge that Portugal are a better attacking force overall than the Croats.

I go for a narrow 1-0 Portugal scoreline, though quite a flattering one for the Germans as i see Portugal fending them off with comparative ease.

From a betting perspective, you cant ignore the Ronaldo score first Portugal win 1-0 option at 22/1 - looks very good value that IMO.

I also like the draw option with Germany receiving a 1 goal start at 11/4.

I also like having 13/2 on Portugal to score a penalty, with the same odds being applied on Germany. When you have the likes of Deco, Ronaldo, Gomes, Ballack, Klose, Podolski on the pitch, it would be little surprise to see a penalty being given for either team, and 6.5/1 either side seems decent odds.

Overall - Heart says Portugal....Head agrees!