Germany vs. Italy Euro 2012 Preview: 3 Key Players to Watch for Each Team

Germany face a tough challenge in the second Euro 2012 semifinal, from a buoyant Italy side, relishing the more expansive football favoured by manager Cesare Prandelli. Although the Germans have arguably been the best attacking force at the tournament, the Italians have shown that they possess ample creativity and flair to go along with their usual defensive resolve.

That should make for an enticing encounter between two heavyweights of world football. The battle will be most intriguing in midfield, where both nations boast a wealth of talent.

Whomever dictates the flow of possession will likely come out on top in a game that will hopefully live up to the classic World Cup 2006 semifinal. Here are the three key players to watch from both teams.

Germany: Sami Khedira, Midfielder

In the modern game, midfielders are too often afforded the luxury of labels that conveniently explain why they can't do certain things. A player who provides no attacking threat is offered the sanctuary of being a "deep-lying playmaker," or is given the "holding role." While a player who never tracks back and tackles is simply an "attacking midfielder."

Thankfully, Sami Khedira shows that not only do true midfielders still exist, but they are invaluable to their team. The Real Madrid man has been superb throughout the tournament, simply by doing everything a midfielder is supposed to do.

He tracks back when Germany are defending and pushes forward when they are on the attack. He is a brave and tenacious tackler, a comfortable and accomplished passer and even delivers his share of valuable goals. Khedira does all the things a midfielder is supposed to be able to do and he does them very well.

Italy: Ignazio Abate, Full-Back

Full-back Ignazio Abate provides Italy with an invaluable attacking outlet. His pace and direct running down the flanks represents Italy's best means of stretching the opposition.

The AC Milan star can play a critical role in carrying the fight to Germany and pinning left-back Phillip Lahm deep. Abate is one of the few Italian players with genuine speed and the midfield should not waste any opportunity to utilise him. 

Germany: Lukas Podolski, Forward

Germany can use Lukas Podolski to take advantage of the space in behind Abate. Arsenal's new forward has struggled for his best form so far at Euro 2012, perhaps missing the link-up with usual partner in crime, Miroslav Klose.

However, Podolski could cause the Italians a host of problems if he makes regular runs in between Abate and the central defender. Intelligent movement is one of the stronger aspects of Podolski's game and he should be able to find space against Italy.

Italy: Daniele De Rossi, Midfielder

As perhaps the most defensively-minded player in Italy's multi-talented midfield, Daniele De Rossi can play a key role in stemming the tide of Germany's attacks. The AS Roma standout's chief task will be to subdue crafty schemer Mesut Ozil.

Germany rely on Ozil to provide the lion's share of creativity in and around the opposition box and De Rossi will need to carefully track his movement. Denying Ozil space and forcing him into quick decisions will be crucial for De Rossi. He had been a doubt for the semifinal, but Football Italia now reports that De Rossi will be included.

Germany: Bastian Schweinsteiger, Midfielder

Bastian Schweinsteiger is a natural playmaker. From anywhere on the field, the inspirational Bayern Munich star dictates Germany's possession play and is always looking to exploit any gaps in a defense with a carefully threaded pass.

Schweinsteiger is essential to Germany's chances of success and he should be on the ball early and often. There have been some fitness concerns, but Sky Sports has reported that Schweinsteiger will be available to face the Italians. If Schweinsteiger controls the midfield, Germany will progress to the final.

Italy: Andrea Pirlo, Midfielder

Vying for Italian control of midfield will be veteran technician Andrea Pirlo. Whenever this author used to watch Pirlo in action for AC Milan, it was difficult to fathom what all the fuss was about.

However, since his move to Juventus, Pirlo has made a believer out of this particular cynic. He was outstanding for the Old Lady this season and has carried that form into Euro 2012.

A player blessed with uncanny speed of thought and natural quality in possession, Pirlo is a cultured passer. His refined distribution is often the catalyst that transforms a routine period of possession into a dangerous attack,

The star of the show in the quarter-final against England, Pirlo is the key to Italy's hopes against Germany. The more the 33-year-old sees of the ball, the more likely Italy are to reach the final.