Germany started their 2010 World Cup campaign with a bang, winning their opening group stage game against Australia 4-0. Germany were then stunned when Miroslav Klose was red carded in their match against Serbia, and the 10-handed Germany eventually succumbed to a 1-0 defeat. Germany were able to bounce back in their final group stage match against Ghana, booking a 1-0 win that brought Germany to finish at the top of the group with 6 points. Despite the loss to Germany, Ghana book the second spot edging out Australia on goal difference.
England were expected to breeze through their group, but found themselves drawing twice in matches against the United States and Algeira, and could've suffered elimination had they not won against Slovenia in their last group stage match. Luckily for England, they did enough to get 5 points and finish at second in the group behind the United States. The second place finish of England puts them up against Germany in the round of 16.
Germany vs England
If England topped the group as expected, maybe we would've seen a Germany vs England showdown in a much later stage of the 2010 World Cup, but as it is, these two powerhouse football teams will be facing each other in the Round of 16.
England may be seen as favorites with big names, such as Wayne Rooney, Steven Gerrard, Frank Lampard and Jermain Defoe on their roster. However, England has only scored 2 goals so far in this tournament, and goals are much-needed if they are to advance. The England team has also been criticized for their lackluster performance, and their lack of drive to want to win. Of course, in their match against Slovenia, England showed exactly what they were capable of, with the kind of aggression and intensity that their players are known for. And although it produced only 1 goal, it was the kind of football that many expect England should be playing in every match.
Germany, on the other hand, have been very consistent. The unfortunate red card of Miroslav Klose left them short-handed with ten men, and allowed Serbia to book the win. Perhaps the outcome of that match might have been different, and Germany could have swept their group. Nevertheless, Germany is ready to play, and they have shown their capacity to bring goals with the commanding 4-0 win over Australia. With star players like Lukas Podolski, Mirsolav Klose, Philip Lahm, Cacau and Mesut Oezil, Germany certainly has a capable squad of getting past England.
Germany vs England will definitely be an exciting match with lots of big named players on the pitch. As much as I like England and their players, I would have to put my money on Germany to win. Germany just show more consistency in their football. Besides, I can't stand English players who diss their fans for boo-ing them, and I can't stand fans who can't be loyal to their team by booing them despite getting a draw. It's not that England lost any match in the group stage, and yet they are booed. So, I'd love to see what happens when they lose to Germany just to see how the drama unfolds.
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