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FIFA World Cup 2014: USA vs Germany Preview

Written by Damien Kayat for @Hollywoodbets.


USA vs Germany | Thursday 26 June | Arena Pernambuco, Recife | 18:00

Jurgen Klinsmann has already stirred up the pot in the wake of his side’s crazy 2-2 draw with the faltering Portuguese. He alluded to the manner in which he believes FIFA caters for the top seeded sides in their respective groups, sighting a day less rest for this encounter as proof of some broader conspiracy. Klinsmann’s outspoken nature always set him apart from your stereotypically reserved German coach and now he finds himself on the other side of the aisle against his fellow countrymen. Miroslav Klose’s record equalling equaliser covered up the cracks of a flat German performance against Ghana. USA have some injury concerns but Klinsmann has fashioned a side that consistently defies the odds, drawing on that old-fashioned American wellspring of not knowing when they are beaten.

To Win (90mins)
USA 78/10
Draw 15/10
Germany 8/10

USA
USA dealt brilliantly with Altidore’s injury by allowing Dempsey more license to get forward and cause havoc in the opposition box. Jermaine Jones’ second-half stunner just served to underline an impressive performance by the young midfielder, while Kyle Beckerman proved a persistent thorn in the side of the Portuguese. The most impressive aspect of this American side is their inexhaustible work ethic. Klinsmann is certainly aware of the fact that his players may not be world-beaters, so he has managed to instil an insatiable desire in the side.

Fabian Johnson has offered an excellent attacking avenue in his foraging runs down the right flank, while Zusi offered some exciting playmaking throughout the match. Alejandro Bedoya was replaced by DeAndre Yedlin in a change that may be carried over into this match. Yedlin offered slightly more industry and will be necessary against a mobile, dynamic German side. Clint Dempsey will be looking to exploit the perceived lack in pace of Per Mertesacker, an area which Klinsmann will no doubt have identified in his preparation. USA’s efficacy really depends on exactly which German side decides to pitch up.

Germany
It was a case of second-match syndrome for a German side that looked nigh-on impregnable in their first match against the Portuguese. The side looked generally sluggish in possession, with Lahm and Khedira forming an extremely unconvincing deeper midfield partnership. Joachim Louw will not make the mistake of underestimating the USA; America won their last friendly encounter. I believe there is one player whose selection would correct the entire balance of the side: Bastian Schweinsteiger.

The modern day exemplar of Franz Beckenbauer’s ‘Kaizer’ role, Schweinsteiger was not utilised against Ghana until the final twenty minutes, as a precautionary measure surrounding a leg injury. Schweinsteiger would command the sweeper role with far more assurance than captain Lahm, which would take pressure off Sami Khedira. Lahm could move back into one of the full-back positions, effectively alleviating Germany of the undesirable scenario of having four natural centre-backs covering their back four. Howedes will probably make way as Schweinsteiger’s inclusion will add both defensive and midfield cohesion to the side, freeing Ozil and Kroos to support Muller and Gotze up the pitch.

VERDICT: Germany 8/10
I feel that the USA may be feeling slightly jaded in the wake of such emotionally and physically exhausting games. Bastian Schweinsteiger should bring a calming influence to the German side, one that will free up the likes of Ozil and Gotze. The USA will have to wait nervously on the events of the Portugal and Ghana clash to know their fate in what has been the definitive group of death.

The man knows his football, but even he gets it wrong from time to time. Feel free to share your view below.

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