HUMBLED GERMANS SEEK REDEMPTION
Germany are not eyeing any high score in their final Group E match against Costa Rica tonight (3am, Hong Kong time) but just hoping a simple win will be enough to carry them into the next round.
The four-time champions must bag the three points if they are to have any chance of advancing, and will simultaneously be getting updates on the other match between Spain and Japan (also 3am, Hong Kong time) that will decide the final standings.
Victory over Costa Rica, who lost 7-0 in their opener to Spain, coupled with a win for Spain against Japan, would see the Germans progress to the round of 16 along with the Spaniards.
A draw between Spain and Japan, however, or even a win for the Asians, would take the equation to goal difference.
“I think against Costa Rica we will be a lot of the time in the opponents’ box compared to our game against Spain and there it will come down to how we play in the box,” attacking midfielder Thomas Mueller said.
“We have a lot humility. We have one point and minus one goal difference so there is no reason to be really euphoric.”
The Germans suffered a shock 2-1 opening loss to Japan before snatching a 1-1 draw against Spain thanks to forward Niclas Fuellkrug’s late equaliser to stay alive.
With simultaneous kick-offs for the final matches, the Germans will have one eye on Spain, hoping qualification will not come down to goal difference.
“It is important to simultaneously monitor the other game because you can adapt your strategy a bit accordingly,” Mueller said. “We want to play the best game we can and win it but I do not think you can say that an 8-0 is a realistic concept at a World Cup.”
A draw would ensure Luis Enrique’s Spain of a spot in the last 16, while a win over Japan would secure top spot in the group.
Reuters