Germany

The Schalke shot-stopper has made a big name for himself at the World Cup, producing a string of fine performances as Germany (7/4 to beat Spain) eased into the last four.

While the likes of Mesut Ozil, Bastian Schweinsteiger and Miroslav Klose (7/2 top scorer) have grabbed the headlines it’s been Neuer keeping them in the matches at the other end.

The 24-year-old has made the most saves out of the four goalkeepers left at the World Cup, denying opponents on 18 occasions.

He has also conceded just two goals, although that should number should be one higher following Frank Lampard’s goal that wasn’t given in the second round.

Having been dubbed the ‘German Casillas’ by the nation’s media Neuer is keen to match his skills up against his Spanish counterpart, Iker Casillas.

“I haven’t heard that, but of course it’s an honour to be compared to Casillas,” said Neuer. “He is an incredibly good goalkeeper who has enjoyed so much success in the past. But I like to play for a zero and it will be the same on Wednesday.”

Having kept Argentina at bay in the last round, Neuer is confident of another clean sheet in Durban as he looks to help Germany avenge their Euro 2008 final defeat to Spain.

While Neuer has been in fine form in South Africa he believes it is all down to his defenders as to why he has only conceded two goals so far.

“It is thanks to some outstanding defending that we have only conceded two goals in the tournament, we can be very happy with that,” he said.

The German’s defence is likely to be tested to the limit by Spain, in particular by David Villa who has looked unstoppable at times during this tournament.

The Barcelona forward is currently leading the way in the race for the golden boot with five goals to his name and will be looking to take advantage of the slightly cumbersome centre-halfs Arne Friedrich and Per Mertesacker.

However, Neuer has backed his team mates to deal with Villa and co, claiming they can boss the game against the less physical Spaniards.

“You have to show the opposition who’s boss,” said Neuer. “If you manage that, you have already achieved a little something.”

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