Klose against Cannavaro

If Klinsmann’s numerno uno striker Miroslav Klose — their target man — has to pump in goals, he has to frisk and dodge past Italy’s centre-back Fabio Cannavaro, who has been the most outstanding player for them so far. It will not be an easy task for him, but with Podolski in tandem, Klose holds the edge. There will also be a lot of challenges in the air as German lobs and crosses will look to find Klose.

Formations

Klinsmann will go for the orthodox 4-4-2, with Klose and Podolski on top. Lippi for Italy might just be tempted to go with 4-3-1-2, with Francesco Totti as an attacking mid-fielder just behind Gilardino and Toni.

Dexterity

German left full-back, Phillip Lahm’s opening goal after a brilliant run down the flank against Costa Rica, set the tone for the Germans. The thrust is always there for them, if needed a final push. For Italy, full-backs Grosso and Zembrotta have also showed their urge to move forward when needed. The latter’s goal against Ukraine was special.

Trump Cards

Whenever Klinsmann wanted a goal badly, he has brought on the fiery David Odonkor down the right-flank. He also had Oliver Neuville, who pinched the Poles, with a last-minute strike. Lippi, meanwhile, is at disadvantage with Inzaghi and veteran Del Piero on the bench, who haven’t been outstanding.

Mid-field Battles

With Frings being suspended for Germany, it all boils down to their inspirational skipper Ballack to hold fort. He will have to work along Schweinsteiger and Borowski, who was impressive in their previous outing against Argentina. For Lippi it has been the most stable part in the tourney with Pirlo, Gattuso and Perrotta holding firm.