A closer look: The semi-finals

Today, the semi-finals of Germany's FIFA WWC 2011 will be held while Germany and Brazil, the last tournaments' finalists, are already out. Therefore we can surely say that we will see a completely new final, but which?

Will the United States manage to go through against France? France surprised at this World Cup not only with good results but by a spectular way of playing whereas the United States could mark the most impressive victory as they knocked out Brazil after penalty shoot out although they seemed to be knocked out themselves...until the 122nd minute.

Carol Anne CHENARD (CAN)

The other semi-final is not of less interest. Japan will face the best team so far, Sweden, as they could win all their matches. Japan mared Germany their title defense in Wolfsburg last week after extra time.

The Match Officials have already been selected as well: Kirsi Heikkinen will referee her third match in Germany, she has been appointed to referee the American semi-final against France in Gladbach. France have their experience with Heikkinen in Gladbach because she refereed France against the host Germany when she sent off the French goalkeeper. She will be accompanied by her country(wo)men Tonja Paavola and Anu Jokela, Christina Pedersen from Norway will function as Fourth Official. The Spaniard Yolanda Parga Rodriguez is the Reserve Assistant Referee.
The later match will be refereed by Carol Anne Chenard from Canada. The symphatic Canadian will be assisted by Rita Muñoz and Mayte Chavez from Mexico, Therese Neguel from Cameroon has been selected as Fourth Official and the other Spaniard Maria Luisa Villa is the Reserve Assistant Referee.

OVERVIEW (some graphics by FIFA.com)