Big D

Sunday's final is guaranteed to give credence to the maxim that defense wins championships. Both France and Italy are locked in at the back, with Thuram and Cannavaro playing intelligently and fearlessly in anchoring the French and Italian back lines, respectively.

To see how well the Italian defense is playing, consider what Fabio Grosso's goal against Germany taught us about defending in the final stages of the World Cup. Leading to the score, Andrea Pirlo drew a few defenders before slipping the ball to a wide-open Grosso in the box. From his spot to the side of the goal, Grosso sent a curling ball to the far post that barely eluded the outstretched arms of Jens Lehman.


Here's the lesson from Grosso's tally: At this point in the tournament, defenses can ill afford to leave anyone open in the penalty area. Grosso is not considered Italy's main offensive threat, but he proved himself capable of pulling the trigger when given ample room. With the exception of one instance, Italy didn't allow the Germans space in the box. On one occasion, Podolski had a good go at goal, but it came on the heels of turning in the box with a defender in his face. That defender made all the difference. And when Podolski had a chance with no defender in site, Buffon made the save - goalies help to make a tight defense, remember.

The French back line isn't giving anything away, either, which should make for a defensive-minded battle. First team to give up too much space to the wrong person (in other words, anyone on the opposing side) will dig itself a sizeable hole.