Germany vs GhanaEstadio Castelao, Fortaleza
Kick-off: 12.30 am Sri Lankan Time
Referee: Sandro Ricci (Brazil)
In a scintillating opening display, Germany already provided a heavy suggestion that the so-called “Group of Death” will, for them, have ample life. A 4-0 destruction of Portugal that threatened to cross the line into humiliation for the team ranked as the second best in one of the World Cup’s toughest groups on paper made light of the expected challenge. On Saturday Joachim Low’s team will take on Ghana looking to put a place in the Round of 16 already within touching distance.
Bastian Schweinsteiger should return, for Sami Khedira, having missed the 4-0 win over Portugal.
Mats Hummels suffered a thigh problem in that game with Shkodran Mustafi ready to replace him if required.
For Ghana, Majeed Waris should be available for selection, but Asamoah Gyan is likely to lead the attack once more.
Michael Essien may also come into the starting XI at the expense of Mohammed Rabiu after recovering from a toe injury.
- Germany will progress to the last-16 with a victory and either a draw or defeat for Portugal against the U.S. on Sunday.
-Ghana will be eliminated with a defeat and either a win or draw for the U.S. against Portugal.
- The only previous competitive meeting between Ghana and Germany came at the 2010 World Cup when Germany won 1-0.
-Ghana will be eliminated with a defeat and either a win or draw for the U.S. against Portugal.
- The only previous competitive meeting between Ghana and Germany came at the 2010 World Cup when Germany won 1-0.
Germany (Possible, 4-3-3): Neuer; Boateng, Mertesacker, Mustafi, Höwedes; Kroos, Lahm, Schweinsteiger; Özil, Müller, Götze.
Ghana (Possible, 4-2-3-1): Dauda; Opare, Mensah, Boye, Asamoah; Essien, Muntari; Atsu, Boateng, Ayew; Gyan.
