Ghana come into their second Group G game needing a win to have any chance of advancing into the Round of 16. The problem with that is the fact that they will have to play a German team that looked absolutely dominant against Portugal. The Germans currently sit atop the Group G table with three points and a goal differential of +4, while Ghana sits in third place with zero points and a goal differential of -1. So what can we expect from these two teams when they face each in Fortaleza on June 21st?
Ghana was by far the more dominant team when they played against the United States, using the speed of some of their world-class players to exploit the U.S. on the wings. Germany on the other hand had no problem with Ronaldo and Portugal as they comfortably controlled the midfield and built out of the back when needed. When the two teams faced each other in 2010, it was only a goal from Mesut Oezil that was the difference. This time around though, it may be a bit tougher of a challenge for the “Black Stars.”
Germany displayed the best performance of the tournament thus far. Thomas Mueller netted three more goals to add to his World Cup total of eight. Look for him to play a big part in this one as well, as he will surely relish going up against a shaky Ghanaian back line. The Ghanaians will need to use the speed on their wings, utilizing the talents of Andre Ayew and Asmoah Gyan, as the German midfield is arguably the best in the world. A testament to this is the fact that Bastian Schweinsteiger sat out against Portugal and will most likely have to give way once more to Toni Kroos and Sami Khedira.
The pressure is all on Ghana as they will desperately need to see a result at the end of ninety minutes. The Germans on the other hand seem relaxed and ready to prove to the world that they are the favorites to lift the trophy at the Maracana come July 13th. It will be no easy cakewalk for the Germans though, but it is hard to bet against them from getting three points after the performance they put on against Portugal.
My prediction: Germany wins 3-1
Betting odds via Bovada.lv
Germany: -1 ½ (-120) // -400 Moneyline
Ghana: +1 ½ (Even) // +1000 Moneyline
DRAW: +525
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