Germany and Portugal Set for Blockbuster Group G Clash at 2014 World Cup
Group G of the 2014 FIFA World Cup kicks off with a heavyweight clash as Germany take on Portugal in Salvador. With star players on both sides, the match promises high drama and could prove decisive in the battle for group supremacy.
Cristiano Ronaldo, recently crowned UEFA Champions League winner with Real Madrid, starts for Portugal and has declared himself fully fit ahead of the encounter. The Portuguese captain, who has battled a knee injury in recent weeks, will be the focal point of his nation’s attack as he begins his World Cup campaign. Experienced defenders Pepe and Bruno Alves will marshal the backline, while João Moutinho takes charge of midfield creativity.
Portugal’s starting XI:
Patrício – Pereira, Pepe, Alves, Coentrão – Moutinho, Veloso, Meireles – Nani, Almeida, Cristiano Ronaldo (captain)
For Germany, manager Joachim Löw has named an attack-minded line-up featuring Mesut Özil and Mario Götze in advanced roles. Sami Khedira, who has recovered from a serious knee injury, also returns to the starting eleven in midfield alongside Toni Kroos. Philipp Lahm captains the side from his holding midfield role, while Manuel Neuer starts in goal after shrugging off a shoulder concern.
Germany’s starting XI:
Neuer – Boateng, Mertesacker, Hummels, Höwedes – Lahm (captain), Khedira – Özil, Kroos, Götze – Müller
With Neymar, Benzema, and Messi already making strong opening statements at the tournament, all eyes now turn to Ronaldo, who will be eager to match the performances of his fellow Ballon d’Or rivals. But he will face a stern test from a well-drilled German side that remains among the favourites for the title.
Kick-off in Salvador is expected to set the tone for a fiercely competitive Group G, which also includes Ghana and the United States. Both Germany and Portugal will be aiming for a fast start in their quest to reach the knockout stages.
