Germany and Italy will face off in an international friendly Friday.
Both teams have qualified for the World Cup next summer but the main story of the game will be the rematch after last summer's semifinal bout in the Euro 2012. In that game, Germany entered as the favorite to take on Spain in the final. However, Mario Balotelli and the Italians had a lot to say about that game and won 2-1; Balotelli scored both Italian goals.
"We have no thoughts of revenge, we cannot change the past," German captain Philipp Lahm said, according to Goal.com. "It is in each player's mind that we never could win against Italy in tournaments. But we look forward now and want to beat Italy."
Lahm has been playing as a central midfielder for his club Bayern Munich but is usually a defender for Germany. However, he was unaware what his role will ultimately be for the national side.
"I assume that I will know before the World Cup, where I will be assigned," Lahm said. "It is important for every player that he has a firm and clear position. But I have proved over years that it is not a problem for me to change positions.
"Joachim Low stands for attacking football. That is his philosophy. We have many offensively strong players who like to have the ball and make the game themselves."
Prediction: Germany and Italy draw 1-1.
Start Time: Kick-off starts at 2:45 p.m. EST.
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