Germany vs. Italy: Game-Changers Who Will Propel Germans to Final

After a stunning first four matches, Germany is riding high behind a scary offense and a defense headed by outstanding goalkeeper Manuel Neuer.

Of course, Italy has a splendid goalkeeper of its own in Gianluigi Buffon, not to mention veteran midfielder Andrea Pirlo, who was fantastic against England in the quarterfinals.

That being said, three players in particular will step up for Germany in the semifinals on Thursday, lifting the side to its second consecutive Euro final.

Here they are.  

Mario Gomez

"Super Mario" Gomez has three goals in Euro 2012, backing up widespread predictions that he would be one of the top goal-scorers in the tournament this year.

Gomez hasn't scored in his last two matches, but he only played 10 minutes against Greece in the quarterfinals with the Germans getting off to a fast start.

The 26-year-old is extremely dangerous around the net.

Mesut Ozil

What more can you say about Mesut Ozil? The sparkling 23-year-old has been all over the pitch throughout the tournament, playing smart football and finding openings.

Ozil has recorded three assists in the past two matches against Denmark and Greece (Germany has six goals in that span) and has generally made his presence known early in matches at this tournament.

Bastian Schweinsteiger

One of Germany's biggest stars coming into the tournament, Bastian Schweinsteiger has been spotty thus far, complicated by an ankle injury.

Having said that, the Bayern Munich star is due to have another great game, and stars tend to rise to the occasion. He hasn't had an assist in two matches, but he contributed two assists in Germany's 2-1 victory over the Netherlands in the group stage.

Schweinsteiger certainly has the ability to make a big difference, and I think he will.