Germany vs. the Netherlands. The rivals have met seven times in European or World Cup competition. In the 1974 World Cup Final, the famed Germany side of Beckenbauer/Muller dispatched the famed Holland side of Cryuff 2-1. The Netherlands came from behind to beat the Germans 2-1 in Hamburg to advance to the Euro 1988 Final. Then of course, there was the Frank Rijkaard/Rudi Voller incident in the 1990 World Cup.

The Germans were lucky. Their performance against Portugal was composed, but tentative and unspectacular. They got the header from Gomez and some fortune in front of their own goal mouth for the win. Interestingly, Loew did not throw on his talented young attackers to break the stalemate late in the match. Potentially, Germany is a more robust, versatile version of Spain. Even a pedestrian effort was enough to beat Portugal.

Holland got its tactics right against Denmark, creating a disturbing number of chances (courtesy of Wesley Sneijder in particular) that went unfulfilled. Of their 32 shots, just five were on target. Robin Van Persie scuffed chances and tripped over his own feet. Posited savior Klaas Jan Huntelaar came on late, and did nothing more than break up the smooth buildup play. The finishing must be better, but if it is we should see why many tipped them to win the tournament.

Portugal beating Denmark helps the Dutch. Presuming the most likely outcome, Germany beating Denmark in the final leg. The Dutch could go through with a result here and a win against Portugal. A loss would eliminate themplace them in a minileague should they beat Portugal and Germany beat Denmark.

[Photo via Getty]