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Kaiser Wants Germany–Italy Final

Bayern Munich president and football legend Franz Beckenbauer is hoping for a Germany-Italy final at Euro 2008.

Germany and Italy are the two most successful European nations, having won a whopping seven World Cups and four European Championships between them over the years.

The countries have also served up some memorable matches. The 1970 World Cup semi-final in Mexico, which finished 4-3 to the Azzurri after extra time, is regarded by many as the greatest match of all time.

Italy also defeated the Germans in the 1982 World Cup final in Spain, while most recently there was the dramatic semi final in Dortmund two years ago.

“Germany-Italy would be a game to get excited about [in the final of Euro 2008],” Beckenbauer confessed.

“It would be a rematch for the World Cup semi-final. The Azzurri are always strong and Germany have grown a lot over the last two years.”

Germany and Italy have been placed on opposite sides of the draw, which means they cannot meet each other up until the final itself. Beckenbauer continued: “There’s a great equality in the tournament. At least 10 nations think that they can win it.

“I don’t think that it will be another Greece-style winner, I think it’ll be one of Italy, Germany, France and Holland.”

Goal.com - Euro 2008 - Kaiser Wants Germany–Italy Final