England v Germany Hockey World Cup Semi Final

Hockey World Cup. One of the greatest rivalries in the sporting world will get re-ignited again on Thursday, as the first semi final of the Hockey World Cup sees the match up of Germany v England. England have had a fairly impressive World Cup campaign, winning four of their five pool matches, including victory over the much fancied Australians. The path to the final of any world cup is seldom easy, and with just two games standing between England and gold, their semi final pits them against the number one ranked team in the world. It has been a tournament full of passion, grit and determination for the English, as they have had to deal with injuries to key players, and hostile, feisty atmospheres and highly charged games.

After stretching their legs at the top of Pool B, Spain put a blemish on their group record, running out 2-0 winners. That mean that Australia had the chance to leapfrog England at the top of the pool, and they took that chance with a 2-1 win over Pakistan, which gave them the goal difference they needed, as both they and England finished on 12 points. Australia’s only defeat came against England in their opening fixture, and they remain strong. The second semi final sees Australia go up against the Netherlands, who have looked impressive during the tournament. The Dutch finished one point behind the Germans, equal on points with Korea, but their superior goal difference saw them squeeze through at the death.

Germany are Ranked number one in the World, Australia second, the Netherlands fourth and England 6th. Spain (3rd) and Korea (5th). That is the strength of the competition left in the final four. With England being the lowest ranked team left in, an appearance in the final would be a major accomplishment. They were full of confidence going into the tournament, with their aim being able to get out of the pool. They have achieved that target with some aplomb, but will need to dig deep again in order to get the better of the Germans. Germany went undefeated through their pool matches, the only points being dropped by them, coming against the Netherlands. That match ended in a close 2-2 draw. Both of the semi final matches are played on Thursday, with the culmination of the tournament, held in India, coming on Saturday.

Germany to win: 13/10 at Paddy Power
Draw: 10/3 at Ladbrokes
England to win: 8/5 at Coral

Australia to win: 4/5 at Bet365
Draw: 7/2 at William Hill
Holland to win: 10/3 at Ladbrokes