Germany vs. Ghana: Preview

When these two teams clash head to head against each other today, it is tough to imagine any result other than a German triumph. The Germans, who humiliated Portugal in their last game, look unstoppable on present form and their team contains some of the best in the world. The Black Stars will not be relishing the upcoming encounter, but can they pull off a tactical masterclass and stop the German giants?

While the Germans started with a win, the Ghana team slumped to a shock defeat against group minnows USA. This leaves Ghana needing to win their games against both Germany and Portugal to guarantee progression, and it is fair to say that very few people expect them to pull this off. However, this is the World Cup, and there have already been enough upsets this tournament to give Ghana some confidence.

Their task is a Herculean one. Germany is a world class team composed of in-form stars and it is fact that they boast the most well balanced side in the tournament with depth at every position. The second ranked team in the world will be without the services of center back Mats Hummels, out through injury, but it does not seem to be a major issue, with quality replacements like Benedict Howedes and Jerome Boateng available. The rest of the team will be mostly unchanged from last game. The 4-2-3-1 formation seems to suit Germany perfectly and expect them to play that today as well.

As for the key player, it is tough to pick one in a team packed with so many stars but it should probably be Thomas Muller. The forward is lethal for his country at World Cups, will a tally of eight goals so far. He scored a hat trick during the game against Portugal, and shutting him down will be essential to Ghana’s plan if they want any sort of result today.

As for the Black Stars, their defeat to the US exposed some defensive frailties that need to be urgently addressed. The coordination between members of the backline needs to be better and the coach will surely have commented upon this. Apart from that, their best chance would probably be to hit Germany on the counter attack with pace, and constantly pressure the German midfield when not in possession. With Ozil, Gotze and Kroos in the attacking third, giving them any time on the ball could be fatal.
Up front, captain Asamoah Gyan will be crucial for Ghana. He will need to be clinical and take every opportunity that comes his way. His supply will mainly depend on brothers Jordan and Andre Ayew and Juventus man Kwadwo Asamoah, who have their work cut out for them.

While Ghana need a win to keep their hopes alive, and they do have several quality players in their ranks, it is very tough to see them upsetting the Germans and I believe that the Germans will run out comfortable winners come full time.