The 2014 FIFA World Cup is almost at an end, with two of the original favourites set to face-off against each other in the final on Monday morning.
Hosts Brazil were knocked out in the cruelest of fashions by a Germany outfit that finally found its form in front of goal. A German victory was not out of the blue, but the 7-1 mauling was.
Joachim Löw’s charges were at their scintillating best, with Sami Khedira an outstanding force in midfield and Toni Kroos showing why he’s one of the hottest properties in Europe.
Mats Hummels played his part too, breaking down almost everything in front of him and helping the German defence deal with a shaky opening period where Brazil looked dangerous in attack.
Now they face one of the toughest defences in this World Cup, Argentina.
The Argies produced a masterful performance in defence to deny the Netherlands from a second consecutive semi-final appearance. Their back four (or five) was immense, with Javier Mascherano putting in one of his best-ever performances, ably supported by Ezequiel Garay and Marcos Rojo.
They may not be everyone’s cup of tea, and they certainly provide a dire brand of football, but they have been effective. In fact, the best word to describe their tournament so far is efficient, a trait usually associated with their final opponents.
Meanwhile, there’s also the rather pointless matter of the third-place playoff between the semi-final losers, Brazil and the Netherlands.
This game is a dead rubber, which means it’s usually packed with goals. It’s also a chance for both teams to get back a bit of pride.
Third-place playoff: Brazil versus the Netherlands (July 13, 6am AEST)
Overview
Brazil are looking for a reason to smile again after the heavy and humiliating defeat to Germany. The Selecao need a big performance to appease their fans, and Luiz Felipe Scolari may be tempted to make some changes.
Thiago Silva returns to the line-up and his absence against the Germans was a big reason behind the inflated scoreline. Bernard was one bright spark in the Brazil attack against Germany, and should keep his starting spot, while Willian could also be given a chance.
The Netherlands are also likely to feature a different line-up from their penalty loss to Argentina in the semi-finals. Coach Louis van Gaal has already expressed his disdain for this fixture, and may be tempted to treat it with contempt. That means starts for Memphis Depay and Klaas Jan Huntelaar could be on the cards, with both players deserving of more game time in this World Cup than they have received.
Nigel de Jong made a surprise appearance against Argentina and could be back to lead the Dutch midfield.
Key Players
Brazil – Thiago Silva, Oscar, Willian
Netherlands – Memphis Depay, Klaas Jan Huntelaar, Wesley Sneijder
Bottom line
With both teams likely to ring changes, it should be an open match featuring a few goals. It’s a dead rubber, but one which Brazil probably has more to gain from.
Prediction
Brazil 3-1
Final: Germany versus Argentina (July 14, 5am AEST)
Overview
Germany finally left their profligacy in front of goal at home in their 7-1 demolition of Brazil. Coach Löw had been critical of their finishing, but couldn’t fault their clinical performance in the semi-final.
They have scored 17 goals now, and conceded just four. The return of Philipp Lahm to right back allowed Sami Khedira to line up with Bastian Schweinsteiger in the past two games, which has been crucial. He was the key reason for Germany’s progress to the final and will be essential in shutting down Lionel Messi. Toni Kroos was also at his best against Argentina, and the youngster is finally proving himself for Die Nationalmannschaft.
Record World Cup goalscorer Miroslav Klose will likely start for a third consecutive match, with Thomas Müller and Mesut Özil supporting from the wings.
But their frightening attack is not their only asset. With Mats Hummels and Manuel Neuer in top form, they can be confident of shutting down Argentina and keeping a clean sheet.
Argentina haven’t been electric in this World Cup, but they have epitomised efficiency. They haven’t conceded a goal since the group stages, and have only let in three in the whole tournament.
Mascherano sat very deep in the semi-final victory against the Netherlands, and was easily the best player on the pitch, despite an early head injury. His ability to break down attacks and cover the back four could be a key factor in this match.
In attack, Argentina have been uninspiring. But they have Messi, and his ability to change a game is second to none. Germany will either have to use three players to shut him down, or risk falling to some of his magic.
This is the third time Germany and Argentina have faced each other in a World Cup final. The first was in 1986, when Maradona stole the show in a 3-2 Argentina win. The second was in 1990, when West Germany exacted revenge 1-0 in a messy match.
This game could evoke memories of the latter final rather than the former, unless Germany come out and grab an early lead.
Key Players
Germany – Sami Khedira, Thomas Mueller, Manuel Neuer
Argentina – Javier Mascherano, Lionel Messi, Marcos Rojo
Bottom line
The first goal will settle the tie. If Germany go ahead, expect a comfortable win. If Argentina grab an early lead, they will aim to sit back and close out the game.
Prediction
Germany 2-0
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