After two weeks of intense games, the 2014 FIFA World Cup has come down to two formidable teams, Germany and Argentina. The two squads will collide on July 13 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil at 3 p.m. EST.
In a report by The Washington Post, Germany was 2-1 in the group stage, defeating Portugal and the United States and ending in a draw against Ghana. Germany defeated Algeria in the round of 16 and beat France in the quarterfinals. In the semifinals, the Germans gave Brazil their most devastating loss in World Cup history with a final score of 7-1.
Argentina was undefeated in the group stage, defeating Bosnia, Iran and Nigeria. In the round of 16, they beat Switzerland. They proceeded to defeat Belgium in the quarterfinals. In the semifinals, Argentina beat the Netherlands.
Throughout the tournament, Germany attempted to score 64 times and successfully made 17 goals. They committed 71 fouls total and 4 yellow cards. Argentina attempted 61 goals and scored 8. They had a total of 64 fouls and 6 yellow cards. Both teams had no red cards. Germany has been in the World Cup 18 times and won three championships, the most recent in 2002. They have been in the finals seven times. Argentina has appeared 16 times and won two out of four in the finals.
According to The Telegraph, the Argentinians will be looking to superstar Lionel Messi. Messi has scored four of the team's eight goals in the tournament. For years, Messi has been the leader of the team and he has delivered throughout with his stellar athleticism and ball control. On the other hand, the Germans will be relying on Thomas Muller to score. He has scored five in the World Cup, second only to James Rodriguez of Colombia. Muller is well known for his speed and endurance, being able to play a variety of positions and finding openings at different areas of the field.
Fans and FIFA experts, however, are expecting Germany to win the finals with a score of 3-1. Germany has been dominant throughout the tournament and is the only top-ranked team left standing after Spain and Brazil were eliminated. Germany has won convincingly in every match and has not suffered a loss, except for the tie against Ghana. Argentina, however, had one loss in the group games and had to win by penalty kicks in the semifinals.
Live streaming will be available on Univision, UStream and ESPN.
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