Mid-field holds the key

STYLE Germany: Rudi Voeller usually goes with a 3-5-2 formation. Backed by a trio of solid defenders supported by a libero or a more traditi...

STYLE

Germany: Rudi Voeller usually goes with a 3-5-2 formation. Backed by a trio of solid defenders supported by a libero or a more traditional sweeper back. Definitely, not an attractive side, yet are a disciplined team who are known for their workmanlike efficiency, flawless execution and technical precision. It is a team that isn’t easily frustrated. They don’t concede many direct free-kicks by making reckless challenges. Instead, they use precise tackling to strip opposing players of the ball and winning possession.

USA: It alternates between a 4-4-2 with a flat-back four and a 3-5-2 formation, depending on the quality of the opposition. With very little speed on the wings, the US relies on ball possession in midfield to create scoring chances. Claudio Reyna is their only creative playmaker. The Americans use quick, one-touch passes to control the pace of the game, keeping its opponents chasing the ball as much as they can. When using a 3-5-2, the central midfielders mark opposing forwards and provide support to the defenders, while the wingers press forward in attack.

DEFENCE

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Germany: Certainly, the best in the tournament along with England. Conceded only one goal and should be able to contain the not-so-brilliant US upfront. Thomas Linke, Christoph Metzelder and Marko Rehmer have so far looked impressive. While skipper Oliver Kahn stands like a rock under the bar.
USA: Jeff Agoos and Eddie Pope are strong central defenders, but the US doesn’t have any world-class players in defence. Right back Frankie Hejduk is inconsistent, but goalkeeper Brad Friedel has been spectacular. Against Germany the back four would require an extra effort to withstand the pressure.

MID-FIELD

Germany: The mid-field will throw up an interesting battle between Germany’s Michael Ballack and US captain Claudio Reyna. Much will depend on Ballack to outpace the US in the middle and spray probing balls for the upfront. Jeremies, Frings and Schneider will provide the support to Ballack.
USA: Reyna holds the key for US success. But if he is effectively marked and contained, the American attack will instantly become stymied. Germany dictates the pace of the game by distributing the ball across the width of the field amongst its mid-fielders. They rarely score goals on the counter-attack, instead relying on a slow, deliberate build up from its own half of the field to create scoring chances.

ATTACK

Germany: Miroslav Klose is Germany’s latest hitman. With five goals under his belt, he shares the top-scorers list with Ronaldo. It would be interesting to watch how US coach Bruce Arena tackle his movement. Klose probably would be supported by Oliver Neuville.
USA: Though Brian McBride has scored twice in the tournament, the US attack lack vigour. With McBride as their main striker, Arena usually brings in Earnie Stewart or Jose Wolff to support the upfront. The US shouldn’t go overboard with their victories against Mexico or Portugal.