Euro 2012: Keys to Victory for Each Semifinal Squad

After a spirited quarterfinals round that saw powerhouse squads punch their tickets, the 2012 European Championship enters approaches its final four. 

Before the tournament started, if you had been told that Portugal, Spain, Italy and Germany would be doing battle for the right to play for a championship, no one would have argued with you. 

But before we can get to the championship match, we have to look at what must happen for them to get to that point. 

Portugal

Goaltending; Consistently Attacking on Offense

One problem that Portugal has had this Euro tournament has been in goaltending. It's not that it has been terrible, just inconsistent. Their defense has gotten better as the tournament has gone on, but against Spain it has to be on top of its game. 

Another factor that will play into a Portugal win or loss will be the way the offense plays. Germany laid the blueprint for Spain in this match by shutting down Cristiano Ronaldo for the entire game. 

Some might try to convince you that there is more to Portugal's offense than Ronaldo, but if you have watched this squad, you know that's not the case. This team needs to make sure it gets contributions from everyone on the field. 

Spain

Start Playing Up To Potential; Don't Get Arrogant

The fact that Spain needed to hold off Croatia in the final Group C match for both squads just to get to the quarterfinals raised some questions about the Spanish squad. 

An impressive 2-0 shutout against Italy restored some confidence that everyone had in this squad before the tournament began. 

They just need to start playing up to their potential, without trying to do too much. Spain is still the best squad in the world and should be making an appearance in the finals. 

Germany

Stay Aggressive On Both Sides Of The Ball

There is really not a lot to nitpick with Germany as it enters the semifinals against Italy. The Germans have been the best squad since the tournament started, winning all four games by a combined score of 9-4. 

Considering that Germany was playing in the "Group of Death," the fact it made it out unscathed and playing as well as it is right now is a testament to how well this squad is playing right now. 

Italy

Keep The Match Close Late; Attack Germany Defense

Italy has done a fantastic job of walking the tightrope this European Championship season. A victory over Ireland in the final match of Group C got the Italians into the quarterfinals. Then a brilliant defensive effort, and strong performance with penalty kicks, carried them to victory over England. 

One problem Italy has, especially against a dominant squad like Germany, is going to be keeping the match close. This squad has proven incapable of doing anything early in matches, which doesn't bode well against Germany. 

As long as the match is close at the end of regulation, Italy is going to use its magic to steal a victory from Germany and rob the world of the Spain-Germany final it desperately wants. 

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