Germany take on Ghana on Saturday at the Estádio Castelão in Fortaleza, with both sides experiencing contrasting fortunes in their opening matches in South America.
Joachim Löw’s imperious Germans thumped 10-man Portugal 4-0 last week, with Thomas Muller’s hat-trick setting them on their way to what was a perfect start to the World Cup. Ghana, on the other hand, suffered late heartbreak against the USA, losing 2-1 to an 86th minute John Brooks header.
Germany Team News:
Possible XI – Neuer, Boateng, Howedes, Mertesacker, Mustafi, Lahm, Schweinsteiger, Kroos, Ozil, Gotze, Muller
Bayern Munich midfielder Bastian Schweinsteiger could return to the starting lineup, in place of Sami Khedira, with the 29-year-old having missed the win over Portugal with a knee problem.
Dortmund centre-back Mats Hummels may be rested after suffering a thigh injury against the Portuguese, with Shkodran Mustafi to deputise against Nigeria.
Ghana Team News:
Possible XI – Dauda, Opare, Asamoah, Boye, Mensah, Muntari, Atsu, Essien, Boateng, Ayew, Gyan
Asamoah Gyan should continue to plough a lone furrow up top despite the availability of Majeed Waris, with the striker successfully recovering from a muscle injury sustained before the tournament.
Former Chelsea man Michael Essien could make his first start of the tournament, along with Kevin-Prince Boateng, who both started the USA match from the bench.
Soccerlens Prediction: Germany 2-0 Ghana
A safe bet at two nothing, but if the Germans really click, it could be even more.
Key World Cup links:
Germany World Cup 2014 Team Page.
Ghana World Cup 2014 Team Page.
World Cup 2014 Matches – Fixtures & Results
World Cup 2014 Player & Team Stats
World Cup 2014 Group Tables
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