Rise to the occasion

4 heavyweights.

180 minutes from glory.

With so many stars and match winners across the four squads, there is high potential for someone to deliver something special.

Someone to rise to the occasion. Or merely to do what they do, on a greater occasion.

Something that will be remembered for the ages.

It's no secret, I hope it is Lionel.

But it could easily be Robben, Oscar, or Goetze.

Brazil

It's funny seeing so many rate this as the worst Brazil side ever. It clearly isn't. The squad is tremendously talented.

And I'm not sure what they were expecting from Scolari either. He has always been defensive and rigid in forming his sides.

And despite the loss of Neymar, they can bring in Willian, and still have Bernard as a sub for impact, who dazzled at last years Confederations Cup.

No doubt in my mind, 94' Brazil was the worst Brazilian side I have ever seen. Insanely boring. Yet look what they did. Do not write this one off just yet.

Germany

The 2002 World Cup Final triggered a rethink for German football.

Despite making the final, they knew their football looked, and was, outdated.

Changes were introduced at Bundesliga and Bundesliga 2 level. All regarding youth training standards, approaches, and style.

They weren't aiming to change the direction of the National Team, but they knew they needed to improve, be more refined, have more football in their side.

Fast forward to today. Germany look to be the favourites, against Brazil in their homeland.

They look to have more football in their side.

I fully expect them to dictate the match. I think they will want to, and I also think Scolari will want them to.

That is Brazil's chance. With such a high defensive line, Hulk and Willian will be looking to run onto an Oscar pass. Algeria showed the way, but lacked the quality.

Can Brazils' defence hold strong, without Thiago Silva, for long enough to allow them to take the lead down the other end.

These semi-finals are too tight to predict. I'd advise to just enjoy it.

I'll enjoy tonights, because I fully expect to suffer through the next.