Germany - Turkey Preview
(Soccer365.com) Germany midfielder Torsten Frings may make an inspirational return in the Euro 2008 semi-finals against an injury-riddled Turkey side in Basel despite cracking rib.
"It speaks for him that he wants to play. I just returned from training and he did everything there," said assistant coach Hansi Flick.
Captain Michael Ballack confirmed: "Torsten is fit again, he has trained. He is pain-free, it is no risk when he plays."
The Chelsea star added: "We know Turkey are missing a lot of players through injury and suspension but they have shown a never-say-die attitude."
"Whoever you face at this stage you're going to get an even match. Their mental strength is a major factor, they can adapt to any opponent and they have a great motivator as a coach. We expect a very close game," reflected Ballack.
Germany coach Joachim Loew hinted: "We may go back to two strikers. Or Three. Or never change a winning team.”
Meanwhile, the Turkey camp has been hit by numerous suspension and injuries which has left Gokhan Zan as the only fit center half.
With regular defender Servet Cetin highly doubtful, Turkey coach Fatih Terim may be forced to start with left-back Hakan Balta alongside Gokhan.
"It could be that we are reduced to just 13 or 14 players because of injuries," admitted Gokhan.
"We beat Croatia and now face a top-class team in the form of Germany. We will clear this obstacle and are not afraid of anyone even though we have a lot of injuries and suspensions."
Comments
These Europeans are paralyzing the game by too much analysis, in fact I read somewhere about paralsis by analysis, look who is in the last four two so called no name tems. What did they do to progress play the game named soccer, not sticking to a play book and hope that a goal come. Long live teams that play any where in the world, eg my son's u9 team. Actually I quit coaching u19 soccer because it was too serious with every one involved, my life is more important.
Posted by: zagalo | June 24, 2008 04:49 PM
Technically, Germany are very strong, possibly the strongest. They know what they need to do to win a game but what they will have to prove is that they don't get full of themselves playing against teams which are pegged to be the underdogs. We all saw what happened vs. Croatia but Germany need that wake up call so they could find their rhythm. Good luck guys!
Posted by: Sarah | June 24, 2008 08:18 PM
Turkey will play the finals....
Posted by: John | June 24, 2008 08:45 PM
the germans will go like an alligator against a big turtle; break the shell by sqezzing with the most powerful teeth...back in the last corner of thr mouth...e
Posted by: tommy mienkus | June 24, 2008 09:00 PM
The final will be Turkey and Russia.
Posted by: Revelian S. N | June 25, 2008 07:50 AM
I just don't see Turkey beating Germany. I'm not trying to discredit them either. They've had amazing determination to win and played bravely. But with Turkey's suspensions, injuries and limited bench I think it's almost inevitable the Germans will prevail.
Posted by: SoccerMan9000 | June 25, 2008 12:16 PM
germany/span it well be play the final in this tournement
Posted by: mouhsine | June 25, 2008 03:53 PM
Turkey will be the winner
Posted by: syed Mehdi ALi | June 26, 2008 07:52 AM