- July, 10 2010 -
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Today’s match was a lively one and very entertaining. To be honest, even though Germany won, I think it would have meant more to Uruguay and their fans to have come third place. It’s the first time for them to get that far in many years. They had more hunger and more desire but in then end Germany had more quality. I feel Uruguay approached the game in a better fashion – they played their top team where as Germany didn’t select all their best players.
Whilst third place doesn't really have a major impact, it would have been great for Uruguay as Germany are historically one of the top three most successful national teams of all time, having won a total of three World Cups and three European Championships. They have also been runners-up three times in the European Championships, four times in the World Cup, and have won four third places. Uruguay, on the other hand, have not got to this level since 1970 when they also came in fourth place - and before that they were World Cup winners in 1960.
By getting to the semi finals, Uruguay will probably move up in the world rankings but that doesn’t have a huge benefit as it has no bearing from a seeding point of view for the next World Cup, as there are a lot of matches to be played between now and then.
Uruguay’s Forlan and Germany’s Muller both scored goals today and now share the title of top-scorers with Holland’s Sneijder and Spain’s Villa. Forlan – who plays for Athletico Madrid – really stood out today and he has had a fantastic tournament. I would even say he has a chance to be the named player of the tournament. That would be a huge honour for the player who currently shares the golden boot award.
Of course, tomorrow is the big one and I’m looking forward to it…
