Germany’s 2-0 victory over Ukraine was not as straightforward as the scoreline suggests.
But the performance was a good model for Roy Hodgson and other managers to follow.
It’s their grasp of basics that makes the Germans so effective in tournaments.
1. Score first
Kroos free-kick, Mustafi power header (19).
2. Don’t concede
Neuer made a save or two and agile giant Boateng somehow kicked one off the line. An equaliser seemed inevitable but the replay showed that the whole of the ball was not over the line.
3. Bring on a sub with pace (Andre Shurrle)
It worked in extra time in the World Cup Final, when Schurrle crossed for sub Mario Gotze to score the only goal of the game.
4. Score again from a breakaway
A clearance by Germany started a break by Ozil on the left flank and his beautifully aimed cross allowed sub Bastian Schweinsteiger to storm forward and finish spectacularly from 8 yards (92+2).
Who can beat the Germans?
I don’t know yet. I want to see Spain twice, Belgium twice, and Croatia again before commenting on who might reach the Final.
Germany v Poland, yesterday’s winners, kick off in Paris at 8pm on Thursday.
Ukraine v Northern Ireland, the two losers, play in Lyon at 5pm.