France v Germany

Twenty-four teams started the tournament and now only four remain. The host nation, as many predicted, are on their way to win their third European Championship title after convincingly defeating surprise quarterfinalists Iceland in a 5-2 rout. France are beginning to find form at just the right time, however, as they progress into the semi-finals, the task now becomes a bit more difficult as they gear up to face World Champions Germany, who also look to be in excellent form.

The Germans just edged Italy in an enthralling quarterfinal tie which saw them defeat the Azzurri 6-5 in a penalty shootout after both teams had been tied at 1-1.

If there are any doubts as to whether France has a good enough squad to go all the way then it must stem from the fact that their defence hasn’t really been convincing throughout the tournament. Inconsistent at best, France’s backline showed vulnerability against Iceland, conceding two cheap goals as well as displaying a lack of concentration during set pieces. With the Germans known to be lethal in the air, this may well prove to be the downfall of the French team.

But with Oliver Giroud lighting up the tournament with his goals as well as Griezmann and Pogba finally playing to everyone’s expectations along with the additional brilliance of a certain Dimitri Payet, France’s attack can pose a threat to any defence.

It’s just a matter of who will strike first and carry on with the momentum; this semi-final fixture looks set to be a close one. In previous encounters with these two teams Germany has only won twice in nine attempts while France have won five with both teams drawing once.

Wales v Portugal

Many football lovers see this fixture simply as a clash between two Real Madrid teammates trying to lead their teams to a never before achieved European title. Not many would have predicted that Gareth Bale and Cristiano Ronaldo would be facing off on the international stage at a competitive level. Wales, who are in their first major tournament in over 50 years, have the considerable opportunity of making the final if they can get past an inconsistent Portuguese team. Portugal has failed to impress since the tournament commenced and have the unwanted record of becoming the first team to reach the semi-final of a major tournament without winning a game in 90 minutes.

Though Wales will be without their inspirational midfielder Aaron Ramsey as well as defender Ben Davis due to suspensions, the heart and bravery exhibited by the team thus far will be present against Portugal who would hope that another shock defeat to a minnow team would not be on the cards.

Whatever happens on Wednesday however, one can be certain that Wales will no longer be that team that everyone laughs at and walks over. They have indeed earned their respect in what has surely been a year for the underdogs.