Sophie Lawson uses her expert knowledge to help predict the Women’s Euros correct scores for the semi-final matches, looking at the key battles in the process.
Germany 3-1 France (Sky Bet odds: 12/1)
Again, going against the odds here, I just think Germany have what it takes to get through this semi-final.
What we saw against Austria is a definite cause for concern as the team looked so off the pace against Austria’s press, whereas they had been able to deal with staunch defending against Spain with ease.
Likewise, France have begun to slow down through the tournament, and although they’ve continued to create, the goals have started to dry up.
With an extra 48 hours rest and only 90 minutes of football in their legs (compared to the 120 minutes France had to put in in search of a winner against the Netherlands), this should be a game where Germany can find the right balance between attacking and defending against France’s canny use of the ball.
Having done well to take some of the best players in Europe out of the game this summer, I’m expecting Lena Oberdorf to put in another stunning (if not underrated) performance against France, her hands likely to be full all night.
For all the matches they’ve played this month, the French backline has only been challenged so much with Pauline Peyraud-Magnin infrequently called into action, against Germany, Wendie Renard and Griedge Mbock/Aïssatou Tounkara will face a tougher examination.
Boasting a multi-pronged attack, I can see the overloads being on Germany’s side in this one, and if they can get the bodies up the pitch to flood the French box in time, they are certain to score goals.
With four in four so far, ALEX POPP is clearly enjoying her maiden Euros campaign, and I’d definitely be looking at her to make it five in five – and close in on the golden boot – as well as teammate, LEA SCHULLER getting on the scoresheet.
For France, this is looking like another game that Kadidiatou Diani will play a starring role, the wily winger expected to leave Felicitas Rauch with a long-lasting headache.
In terms of goals for Les Bleues, I can see DELPHINE CASCARINO finding the back of the net for France again, the Lyon woman unlucky not to strike against the Netherlands, her precision with the ball absolutely ridiculous.
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