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Monday, 16 June 2014

FIFA World Cup 2014, Germany vs Portugal: Key players to watch

Group G opener between Germany and Portugal will have a host of talented players on show for the fans that will be coming in large numbers to support their respective teams. While Germany boasts of a powerful midfield the Portuguese will be looking to unleash their star skipper Cristiano Ronaldo on the opponents. Here we look at some of the players from both sets that will be looking to set the stage on fire in this fast paced encounter.

 
STAR PLAYERS

Cristiano Ronaldo: Coach Paulo Bento was relieved to say the least when his captain was declared fit for the tie. Cristiano Ronaldo single-handedly brought Portugal to the world cup scoring four goals against Sweden in the play off. When he is on song no defence in the world can contain him. He tormented the Bayern Munich players in the Champion League semi final and some of those players who are up against him in Salvador know what this legendary player is capable of. If he gets the right service from his players, he will punish Joachim Loew’s men.
Miroslav Kolse: There is something about Miroslav Klose when he dons the German shirt it’s either his passion for the game or love for his country that brings the best out of the German in international football. He is two shy of breaking Ronaldos record of most goals in the world cup. The 36 year old veteran has the backing of his coach who has shown faith in a guy who was troubled with injuries throughout the season. We can’t bet against the Polish born striker to get a brace in the match as his desire to win a major tournament with Germany is more than ever.

PLAYERS TO WATCH OUT FOR PORTUGAL

Joao Moutinho: He has been a consistent performer for Portugal for a long time but is highly underrated .This might just be the blessing in disguise for him as pressure can get to you in such tournaments. A solid display from him in midfield is what Portuguese fans are craving for from this crafty midfielder.

Pepe: The Real Madrid man is rock solid in defence to thwart the German attacks and his distribution from the back will also be the key. Pepe is known for his odd moment of madness and is prone to making those fatal errors but his undoubted qualities and ability to read the game make him an important player for Portugal.

Fabio Coentrao: Another experienced player in defence for Portugal, he has to put in extra shifts down the flanks to orchestrate the attacks. The Coentrao-Ronaldo combination will be pivotal if Portugal has to succeed.

PLAYERS TO WATCH OUT FOR GERMANY

Mesut Ozil: The 2010 world cup in South Africa saw the birth of Mesut Ozil as a true world class player but this season he has failed to play at the level we all expect from him. He has to give a fitting reply to the critics who raised doubts over his selection in the team. When he is on song, he does make football look like an art.

Lukas Podolski: He is only 29 but has already amassed 114 caps for his country. The Arsenal forward has a good world cup record and will be keen to make use of the opportunity available due to absence of Marco Reus. He has been in fine form for Germany which was evident when he set up five goals and scored one against Armenia.

Thomas Muller: Another one of that player who has performed consistently for Germany for the best part of five years. The 2010 World Cup golden boot winner is technically gifted and his finishing abilities are known to all.

Click here to see the FIFA World Cup 2014 Points Table

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