USA will take on Germany with both teams having a chance to clinch a spot in the round of 16 as they face each other in their final Group G match at the FIFA World Cup 2014. The match will be played at the Arena Pernambuco at Recife on Thursday, January 26.
Both teams need a draw in order to qualify for the next round although it can be expected of both the sides to give this match a real go considering the fact that both can still finish on top of their group depending on the outcome of the match.
USA had come into the tournament as outsiders in this particular group. However, Jurgen Klinsmann’s side has proved that they are no pushovers as they beat Ghana 2-1 in the opener before drawing their next game against Portugal.
In their last match, the Americans had in fact been leading by a goal after conceding first. However, Cristiano Ronaldo’s fantastic ball into the box was converted by Silvestre Varela as the USA were denied what would have been a well-deserved victory.
Skipper Clint Dempsey well and truly set the US on their way when he scored 30 seconds into their campaign opener as the Americans stunned Ghana 2-1 before being held by Portugal in the second round of matches.
One would expect Klinsmann to put out an attacking team as he will not be looking to do his home nation any favours in the World Cup. With a squad as fit as the USA and one which is as determined as them to get into the next round, one would expect a tough match.
The Germans kick started their tournament with a 4-0 hammering of Portugal. However, in their second match, Germany were trailing Ghana by 2-1 and were lucky to equalize through Miroslav Klose. One would expect Klose to play from the start against USA after he came on to great effect against Ghana. While he may not be the quickest, Klose is probably the best finisher that Germany have in their squad.
Considering the number of chances that the Germans have wasted in this tournament, one would not be surprised to see Joachim Loew start with Klose up top. If that is the case, Sami Khedira will be the man who faces the axe as there is no chance that either of Philipp Lahm or Toni Kroos is dropped for this crucial game.
Khedira has been nor here nor there as he has failed to excel in the attacking role that has been afforded to him. The likes of Thomas Muller and Mario Gotze continue to impress though while Mesut Ozil looks to be nearing his best form after a great game last week.
Expect some fireworks from the Germans as they look to qualify in style and on top of Group G for the second round of the FIFA World Cup 2014.