REVIEW: GERMANY vs PORTUGAL

REVIEW: GERMANY vs PORTUGAL

The opening clash of 'GROUP G' was Germany against Portugal. Both teams filled with star players, it was expected to be a very tough contest. Unfortunately it was not a tough contest. The Germans were definitely better prepared and ended up winning 4-0. 

The first half kicked-off. The Germans had kept star mid-fielder Schweinsteiger on the bench. Thomas Muller opened the scoring through a penalty just after 10 mins. The Portuguese conceded a 2nd goal through beautiful header by German defender Hummels. A perfect corner by Toni Kroos, Hummels did well to get his head to the ball. The Portugal defense was all over the place. Things became worse when a 'Red Card' was shown. Pepe known for getting into trouble, was shown a Red after head-butting Thomas Muller after catching him on the face. The Portuguese got forward. Hugo Almeida was tackled by Hummels. A rather rough tackle from Hummels, Almeida was injured as a result. The Portuguese were broken. A 2nd goal for Muller came from a good cross, but poor defensive work. Under half time, Germany was leading by 3 goals with an extra player on the pitch.

The match resumed. The Germans had started to rest a bit. Portugal got some chances, but could not score.

Things got even worse when Fabio Coentrao injured himself. Another star player down for the Portuguese.

Muller scored the first Hat-trick of this WC. A grounded cross was pushed away by GK Rui Patricio but went straight to Muller. Muller got his hat-trick and Germany were winning by a 4 goal lead.

Portugal lost miserably.

According to me, the reason's for Portugal's loss were;

Star players like Cristiano Ronaldo, Joao Moutinho not playing to their full potential.

Defense not being able to spot the run of the forwards. Defense not being able to clear chances.

Low confidence due to star players not performing.

Germany was on top of their game. There wasn't 1 player in the squad that wasn't contributing.Each every player played well. Good managing by Joachim Lowe. 

Parth Patankar

St. Vincent's High School, India, Pune.

Std. 10