The stage is set for the mouthwatering piece of the UEFA Under-21 European Championship in Poland with two of Europe’s powerhouses, Germany and Spain, locking horns in what is expected to be a scintillating final.

Underwhelming Germany

There is one thing you can’t deny when it comes to Germany. Consistency through generations is Die Mannschaft’s trait, one which receive its confirmation all over again in the semi-finals against England U21. Talent-packed Germany finished the group stage second-placed behind Italy and went on to become the better side throughout the match against the Young Lions. Die Mannschaft lacked their trademark composure and concentration, however, and got so close to losing the game hadn’t it been for their in-form goalkeeper Jannik Pollersbeck who emerged as a hero for his underwhelming side. Germany gave us the impression that there is still room for improvement and they will be expected to go up the notch against ruthless Spain in the final match of the tournament. The 2009 European champions will have a proper challenge against the four-time winners though.

Serge Gnabry overcame his fitness issue to start the match against England, but could lose his starting spot due to a poor performance. Felix Platte is pushing for a starting berth after an impressive game in the semis, while Mahmoud Dahoud is aslo expected to return to the starting line-up.

Unstoppable Spain

Generational consistency is even more highlighted with Spain, the four-time European Under-21 champions who sealed their place in the final after an impressive 3-1 win over Italy. Truth be told, Italy did finish the match with ten men on the field, but that will not diminish the fact La Roja were completely dominant against Azzurri. Saul Niguez scored a hat-trick to singlehandedly put Spain into the final and to round of an impressive display which immediately sparked rumours of his potential departure from Atletico Madrid. Spain has been dominating the tournament with nothing but wins in Poland and are widely expected to continue their impressive run. Spain are bursting with talent and quality and although it is ungrateful to single out any players, Dani Cabellos was the man who put in a particularly impressive performance against Italy. Real Betis midfielder pulled the strings in the midfield and used his piercing pace and technical ability to cause all sorts of problems for his markers.

Spain are unlikely to change their team for the final match, although Gerard Deulofeu could be replaced by Denis Suarez in the starting line-up after a below-par performance against Azzurri.

Verdict

With nothing but details to separate the two quality-laden squads, there is a belief that Spain are better positioned to lift the coveted trophy. La Roja are in imperious run of results which is followed by a string of impressive displays as well. Spanish side will cause problems to underwhelming Germany, but you better not underestimate Die Mannschaft as it can come back to bite you.

Top pick: Spain   1.95 (19/20) @PaddyPower

Alternative pick 1: Over 2.5 goals   1.85 (11/13) @10bet

Alternative pick 2: Spain to score in both halves   3.00 (2/1) @WilliamHill