USA v Germany

Both USA and Germany should have made it to the Round of 16 in the ongoing FIFA World Cup by now. Both had won their first games comfortably and had a comparatively weaker opponent to face in the second game, but, neither could bring out its best performance and win.

USA played a draw against Portugal, while, Germany did the same against Ghana. Now, the scenario is that both of them are in need of one point to advance to the knockouts.

They would be facing each other at Arena Pernambuco on Thursday and if it’s a draw, both would be through, while, the other two teams in Group G (Ghana and Portugal) would be out. But, if one wins and the other loses, it would bring Ghana and Portugal in picture.

Ghana and Portugal have one point each in two games, while, Germany and USA have four each in as many games.

In case of a draw in Thursday’s match, Germany and USA would have 5 points each and it would be impossible for Ghana and Portugal to reach there. But, in case of a clear result, one out of Germany and USA would get stuck on 4 points and then, Ghana and Portugal would have the chance to get levelled with that team.

In normal circumstances, people would think that if both the teams need a draw, they would try to play safe and thus, a goalless draw is a possibility. But, the game between USA and Germany is going to be a bit different. The Germans are actually furious after having got only one point from that Ghana match. They are eager to get back to winning ways. So, in all likelihood, they would try to be aggressive and hand USA a humiliating defeat.

The statements made by Per Mertesacker yesterday was enough to suggest how the Germans are feeling.

Mertesacker said, “We would go out there (against USA) and try to show what we are capable of. I think it’s sort of a do-or-die match for both of us.”

So, a goalless draw is not looking like happening on Thursday. Whatever happens, it would be thrilling to watch, that’s for sure.