Germany, Chile lock horns in 2017 Confederation Cup finals
Regardless of what happens in the FIFA Confederation Cup 2017 final in St. Petersburg today, one thing is sure. After Brazil (4 titles), France (2), Argentina, Mexico and Denmark (1 each), there will be a new name on the trophy, as both Germany and Chile are in the final of this tournament for the first time.
Chile are peaking – mentally and tactically – at the right time, even though their profligacy in front of goal and energy reserves may prove to be an issue in the final.
The fact that they created so many chances in the semi-final against Portugal and played the entire 120 minutes at a high tempo proves that they will be up for the challenge against Germany.
What could make or break the team is whether they are able to convert their chances and eliminate mistakes in defence.
On their own part, Germany have been very impressive in attack throughout the tournament, and as Joachim Low has pointed out, they have also been gelling better as a team.
Now they need to prove this in the final against Chile – a team that their coach has enormous respect for. The young German squad has had its eyes on the prize since the tournament began, and has every chance of lifting the trophy today. What are they saying? Joachim Loew (Germany): “Chile are the strongest opponents in this tournament, we know them pretty well and we expect them to go for it in the final,” said Loew.
“They will be trying flat out to pull it off, as they are coming to the end of their season, and we will have to try and counter that.
“We know the Chileans are flexible in their game. They have been pursuing their own style for many years now, a very good and positive development.” Claudio Bravo (Chile) “We are from a country that might not be used to these kind of situations,” captain Bravo said of today’s final.
“So, by playing football, we have the chance to make our people happy so they can forget about their problems. That’s the most beautiful thing of all.” What you need to know There was a dress rehearsal for the FIFA Confederations Cup 2017 final in St. Petersburg when Germany and Chile met in the group stage. The CONMEBOL champions took the lead after just six minutes courtesy of an Alexis Sanchez strike, before Lars Stindl restored parity before the break. Neither side could add to their tally in the second half.
The adidas Golden Boot for the tournament’s top scorer looks likely to end up in Germany, who have three players in the running. After the semi-finals, Timo Werner (3 goals, 1 assist) is just ahead of Leon Goretzka (3, 0), Cristiano Ronaldo (2, 1) and Lars Stindl (2, 0). Portugal’s talisman has already headed home, however, and will not be adding this particular award to his haul.
Chile are currently riding a wave of success. After their Copa America triumphs in 2015 and 2016, La Roja are looking for their third international trophy in as many years. Possible line-ups Chile: Claudio Bravo; Mauricio Isla, Gary Medel, Gonzalo Jara, Jean Beausejour; Pablo Hernandez, Marcelo Diaz, Charles Aranguiz, Arturo Vidal; Eduardo Vargas, Alexis Sanchez. Germany: Marc-Andre Ter Stegen; Matthias Ginter, Antonio Rudiger, Niklas Sule; Joshua Kimmich, Sebastian Rudy, Leon Goretzka, Jonas Hector; Lars Stindl, Julian Draxler; Timo Werner