Written by Damien Kayat for @Hollywoodbets.
Germany vs Algeria | Monday 30 June | Estadio Beira-Rio, Porto Alegre | 22:00
Germany’s illustrious history in the FIFA World Cup is as well documented as their infamy in foreign affairs. Names like Beckenbauer and Gerd Muller roll off the tongue with ease, indicating the immensity of the task that awaits Algeria on Monday night. In fact, Germany were instrumental in perhaps the darkest day in Algerian footballing history. At what later became known as the ‘Disgrace of Gijon’, West Germany and Austria played out a farcical 1-0 West German victory that ensured both side’s qualification at the expense of a talented Algerian side. Algeria will be hoping to inflict some much belated revenge while Germany just look to maintain the status quo: German advancement.
To Win (90mins)
Germany 2/7
Draw 46/10
Algeria 9/1
Germany
Germany’s wilful determination against the USA hinted at a deeper maturity that Louw has instilled in his side of late. They weren’t swashbuckling by any means, but did enough to book the Round of 16 encounter with surprise package Algeria. Thomas Muller has been revelatory in his incarnation of the ‘false nine’ concept. His interplay with Gotze and Ozil was aided by the return of the calming influence of Schweinsteiger, and the German attacking threat is starting to take on a potent shape. Podolski may come in for Gotze in this match, just to offer a slightly more direct style against the counterattacking abilities of Algeria.
Slimani has been a handful for opposition defenders with his speed and size, but the pair of Hummels and Mertesacker should have an easier time with the Algerian forward. Algeria have hardly been solid in the tournament, conceding their fair share of soft goals, and Germany should be able to overcome the North African side with ease. Additionally, the onset of Ramadan could have some negative effects on the physical prowess of the Algerian side (and Mesut Ozil).
Algeria
Algeria’s fairytale World Cup has hit the immovable object that is Germany. Let’s be honest: Algeria progressed from what was certainly one of the weaker groups, and at a struggle. Germany conquered the so-called ‘Group of Death’ and are building towards a deep run. Sofiane Feghouli and Islam Slimani will have their work cut out trying to dismantle a German side who are likely to be far more clinical than the errant Russians. Coach Halilhodzic hailed his team’s fighting spirit in the second half against Russia, and will be hoping that the central defensive pairing of Halliche and Belkalem can offer similar assiduous defensive cohesion here.
VERDICT: Germany 2/7
Germany are just too strong a team for an Algerian side whom enjoyed a favourable group stage draw. I fancy Germany to have the game put to bed in time for Miroslav Klose to join proceedings in the second half, where the languid German forward may just crack the number one goal-scoring spot at the World Cup for himself. Expect Muller and Ozil to dominate a hard-working but technically outmatched Algerian side.
The man knows his football, but even he gets it wrong from time to time. Feel free to share your view below.
