World Cup Semis

Dammit, the World Cup's nearly over. But at least we can now look forward to an exciting finale between the not-so-free-flowing Dutch and "let's try and pass the ball into the net" Spain. But nevermind that... yet.

Netherlands vs Uruguay: I don't think anyone would or could have predicted Uruguay to reach this stage. I get the feeling they knew that themselves, and thrived on the underdog/party pooper tag. The Dutch had won all their games without being spectacular, causing many to wonder if they had what it took to go all the way. So, the Dutch were seemingly favourites and started fairly confidently. And then there was possibly the best goal of the tournament so far from Giovanni Van Bronckhorst (or as the annoying Clive Tyldesley kept calling him, 'Gio' - as if he's his best mate). But just before half-time, Forlan scored a screamer himself. The Uruguayans looked to be on top when half-time came. Then Van Der Vaart came on and the Dutch kicked up a notch. A suspiciously offside Van Persie wafted his shin at a Wesley Sneijder cross (the fact he missed it must have put off the keeper!), and then Robben nutted one in off his bald head to send the entire nation mental. The game was virtually secure until a late Uruguay goal set up a nervy finish, but the Oranje held on to book a first World final since 1978. But would fate hand them a chance to gain revenge on the Germans for 1974?

Germany vs Spain: Did anyone want the Germans to win outside of Germany? A large proportion of the world must have been Spanish for the night. The Spanish passed their way through the game, always patient, and not committing too much thus preventing the Germans continuing their successful counter-attacking play. But no matter how many times Spain put one inches wide or just failed with the final pass, you sensed the Germans only needed one chance to score. Thankfully the referee missed a dead set free kick for a foul on Ozil just before half time. It was outside the area, but a penalty could so easily have been given. Normal service resumed in the 2nd half as Spain continued to pass their way around the pitch. Then came the goal from one of the ugliest (?) players at the World Cup, Carles Puyol! The Spanish had more chances to put the game beyond Germany, Pedro for one (why didn't he pass to Torres??!), but yet again we were subjected to a nervous, twitchy last five minutes before the referee put us all out of our misery and sent the Spanish delirious.

So, 62 games played, 2 more left to go. Who will finish 3rd? Who will be crowned the new World Champions? Because, after all, neither Spain nor the Netherlands have ever won the World Cup before.

Now, which was the best game of the tournament so far?
Best Goal?
Best Player?
Biggest Disappointment?

Answers on a comment please.