Serious contenders for trophy

So Germany and Spain made it to the World Cup semi-finals at the cost of a powerful Argentina and a fighting Paraguay respectively.

While the former crushed Latin American hopes with a 4-0 victory, the latter rode on David Villa's brilliance to make it to their first semi-final in 60 years.

One shouldn't be surprised over what Germany and Spain achieved thus far in the tournament. Both lost a match each, but came back strongly to emerge serious contenders for the coveted trophy.

Image: David Villa and Miroslav Klose

Going into the month-long extravaganza, few gave Germany a realistic chance in the World Cup after injuries to seniors players like Michael Ballack, but coach Joachaim Loew transformed a young bunch into a well-oiled machine.

They started off with a thumping 4-0 win over Australia, but were brought down to earth in a 1-0 defeat by Serbia. The match against Ghana was physical, but they managed to scrape thorough 1-0.

Then came the British! That match against England showed what the young Germans are made off.

The sight of the likes of Ozil, Muller, Podolski, Schweinsteiger, Klose, ripping though the an experienced English defence, which had big names like John Terry, Jamie Carragher, Ashley Cole, was a refreshing sight. England were routed 4-1 -- the victory sending the Germans to the Round of 16.

Then came the 'big' quarter-final clash against Argentina, who had displayed silken touch in the group stages.

In between Maradona's war of words, Loew was carefully putting the pieces together for yet another demolition job. In the end, it was the Germans who reigned. They destroyed the South Americans 4-0 in what can easily be termed their best win in the tournament and entered into the semis.

Image: Germany team during a practice session with Joachaim Loew

So what is it that makes Germany such a formidable force?

The answer lies in Bayern Munich club.

Bayern Munich, who won the Bundesliga had players in red-hot form. A look at Bayern's side would tell you that it's as good as the current national team.

Philiph Lahm, Bastian Schweinsteiger, Thomas Muller, Mario Gomez, Mirslov Klose all play for the same club.

So, does playing in the same club make a huge difference?

Many believe it does, as there is better co-ordination and better understanding, compared to teams that generally come together just couple months prior to an international tournament.

Image: Miroslav Klose and Tomas Mueller

And what can one say about the Spaniards?

Spain started off with a shocking defeat to Switzerland, suddenly raising doubts over their ability to progress in the tournament.

With Torres and Cesc Fabregas on the injured list, their battle ahead looked like an uphill climb. But they had a certain David Villa to take them through. Four goals in five matches, speak volumes of the ability of the Valencia player who recently shifted allegiance to Barcelona.

But Spain's real strength lies in the midfield. Read La Liga champions Barcelona midfield. Xavi and Iniesta form a formidable link line. And when combined with the likes of Gerrad Pique and Carlos Puyol at the back, it is a good blend of defence and attack.

Spain, like Germany, have a team that has more than 50 per cent of their players playing for the same club. And even though they have not been as prolific as Germany, they could well give the former champions a good run for the money when they meet in the Thursday's semi-finals.

Here are some key facts as Germany take on Spain:

Image: Xavi and Andres Iniesta