Quarter Final 3: Spain vs France
Spain:
There was never any doubt that they would make it this far, but despite one confident win over Ireland they havent quite looked the infallible force they were two years ago, Croatia were one Casillas save away from taking the lead and qualifying in the final match of Group C. They proved that if a team is committed enough to harass the Spanish team they can be made to look, well, ordinary.
Match Plan: Tika-taka. Tika-taka. More tika-taka. Expect Torres to start but be replaced with a midfielder to punish the fans for expecting something exciting.
Tournament Expectations: They will believe they have to get to the final, however I think they could be undone either here or in the semis.
France:
Despite being the favourites for Group D, France qualified second and therefore got the more difficult draw after England restricted them to only long range efforts and Sweden comfortably beat them in the final game of the group. Therefore they face the difficult tasks of trying to outclass a team who play similar football to them but have been doing it better for longer, with a days less rest before it.
Match Plan: Much like Greece with Germany they need to harass Spain. They can try and hold out and get a goal on the break, however a smarter tactic would be to start with Benzema and Giroud and try and over power a frail Spanish defence. Use speed, strength and counter attacks to try and best the Spanish.
Tournament Expectations: Realistically I dont see this inconsistent French side overcoming Spain, it would be a major shock if they made it to the semis.