EURO 2016 Semi-Final – France Vs Germany: What to expect in the biggest game so far

Germany and France are one step away from the Euro 2016 final. Joachim Low's side made it to the semis taking after a confused shootout win over Italy, while France achieved the last four spot in the wake of ending Iceland’s fairytale in Paris.

Their last meeting, at the Stade de France in November, was shaken by terrorists as three suicide bombers targeted the stadium, executing one outside the ground after failing to get through the passage. The match proceeded to its decision, with France winning 2-0, as talk swung to security ahead this summer's competition.

France battled towards the beginning of this competition - they needed late goals to see out Romania and Albania, and were additionally battling against Ireland in the round of 16. Didier Deschamps' group then hit their step in the 5-2 win against the dim stallions Iceland however again demonstrated shortcomings in defense.

While the hosts have bets on snippets of individual splendors and the capability of Olivier Giroud, Antoine Griezmann and most conspicuously Dimitri Payet, Germany have been the overwhelming side in the greater part of their Euro coordinates as such. Coach Joachim Low utilized the gathering stages to frame a triumphant attitude inside his squad and has changed his formations and strategies when required.

Did you know?

- This will be the fifth encounter between Germany and France, yet their first in the European Championship.
- France won the first match at a World Cup (in 1958) whilst Germany punted them in the next three in 1982, 1986 and 2014.
- The French have never kept a clean sheet in their last four clashes with Germany at significant competitions.

From the horse’s mouth

Didier Deschamps, Coach, France: No one can change history, but there are some new chapters to be written and the players can write them. This page is currently blank and they need to fill it tomorrow.

Joachim Low, Coach, Germany: We're not playing against a team; we're playing against an entire country, so I wouldn't say we're favorites. Both teams have good quality and who shows this and makes fewer mistakes and takes their chances will win. We're going to be the toughest opponents France has had to face so far here. We're going to put everything into reaching the final.

Expected Lineups, Suspensions & More

France

Suspensions: Arsenal pair Olivier Giroud and Laurent Koscielny were both one card far from a ban during last match against Iceland, but were substituted ahead of schedule to guarantee they could play on Thursday night. No Suspensions

Expected Lineup: Lloris (C), Sagna, Rami, Koscielny, Evra, Matuidi, Kante, Pogba, Griezmann, Giroud, Payet

Germany

Suspensions: Mat Hummels (CB), Mario Gomez (Injury) & Sami Kheidera (Injury).

*It is confirmed that Bastian Schweinsteiger will be leading the side against France

Expected Lineup: Neuer, Kimmich, Boateng, Howedes, Hector, Schweinsteiger (C), Kroos, Draxler, Ozil, Gotze, Muller

Score Prediction: French will be the first to draw blood, experts predict a close match with France scoring the winning goal in extra time (2-1).