Euro 2008: Key final match-ups

A look at three major match-ups and battles which could well decide who will claim the title of European champions.

The over-achievers face the under-achievers in Vienna on Sunday evening as the workmanlike Germany take on flamboyant Spain at the Ernst Happel Stadium having battled their way to the Euro 2008 final.

Here are three potentially key battles which could decide the clash.

CHRISTOPH METZELDER V FERNANDO TORRES

The injury-prone Real Madrid defender has improved as the tournament has progressed having missed much of last season, resulting in a lack of match-practice. Both he and partner Per Mertesacker had trouble containing the lively and unpredictable Turkish attack and will be tested again when they face Spain's Torres.

The Liverpool forward has so far been overshadowed by David Villa but with the leading scorer out with a thigh problem, 'El Nino' could lead the line alone supported by a stellar midfield.

TORSTEN FRINGS V CESC FABREGAS

If anyone can play with a cracked rib, it is the operose Werder Bremen midfielder.

His introduction as a substitute was vital in the semi-final against Turkey and his presence will be imperative if Germany are to have any hope of containing Spain's celebrated midfield. Fabregas could once again play a prominent supporting role and make his first competitive start of the tournament - he has only started the 'dead' group game against Greece - having thoroughly impressed in all of his substitute appearances so far.

Should Frings pay too much attention to the Arsenal talisman, however, doors will open for the likes of Xavi, David Silva and Andres Iniesta.

MIROSLAV KLOSE V CARLES PUYOL

Poland-born Klose has a prolific scoring record at the World Cup but made no impact at Euro 2004. He has managed two goals - both crucial - in the quarter-final and semi-final against Portugal and Turkey respectively despite looking out of sorts.
Spain's defence is supposedly their weak link and Carles Puyol - only 180cm tall - will have to cope with the aerial threat posed by the Bayern Munich poacher, himself only 182cm.