Match day 4: Germany vs Portugal - Group H at Arena Fonte Nova, Salvador. preview

The match between Germany and Portugal will be the third high intensity big guns clash in this world cup. Germany and Portugal have met in the past and it was Germany which always had upper hand when it came to the duel. This Game will be the 100th game for Germany in world cup. No other country has ever played 100 games in world cup till date

In previous 3 meetings Germany had the upper hand.

Euro 2012 

Germany 1 - 0 Portugal

Euro 2008

Germany 3 - 2 Portugal

World cup 2006

Germany 3 - 1 Portugal

In all 3 games Christiano Ronaldo never had a impact in the game. Ronaldo also has some injury scares but has confirmed he will be playing today's game. Today's game will be a close contact where both the teams will try to start of with a flyer.

Possible Lineup

Germany:

Neur (GK) ; Boateng - Mertesacker - Hummels - Howedes; Lahm - Khedira; Mueller - Kroos - Gotze; Ozil

Coach Joechim Low

Formation: 4-2-3-1

Portugal:

Patricio (GK); perreira - alves - pepe - contrao; moutinho - veloso - meirless; nani - almeida - ronaldo

Coach Paulo Bento

Formation: 4-3-3

My take on this game will be even though both the squads look potent and equal, Germany will upper hand on the game. On the other hand, since scheiwnsteiger is missing the game Portugal can try to capitulate the midfield in order to regain control.

Prediction: Not sure. Germany may score first.

Portugal Win: 35%
Germany Win: 45%
Draw: 20%

enjoy the game and do give feedback.

--
venkats