Can Germany get the nod against a helpless Brazil?

Germany will have the chance to avenge their 2002 World Cup final defeat to Brazil when they take on the depleted host nation in Belo Horizonte in the first semi-final. Germany knows it is their best chance to make it to the finals of the World Cup after a gap of 12 years and Joachim Loew’s men would look to finally get the underachievers’ tag off their back.

BRAZIL

The host nation comes into the match with problems with star striker Neymar out of the World Cup with the horrific injury he suffered against Colombia. The Barcelona forward is virtually impossible to replace but coach Scholari must find a way to tackle the Germans without his main man. He would want the likes of Oscar and Hulk to finally come to the party who have had a below par tournament so far.

Skipper Thiago Silva who will miss the game through suspension looks set to be replaced by Bayern Munich centre back Dante, which is not a bad replacement to have for any side. Brazil may go for an extra attacking midfielder like Willian in place of the injured Neymar to counter the German midfield.

GERMANY

After knocking the French out of the tournament with almost a workman like precision, Germany will look to capitalise on the defensive frailties of Brazil.

Miroslav Klose who started the previous game against France may be replaced by Mario Gotze in the starting line up as Germany look to take advantage of the gaps in Brazilian midfield. Sami Khedira and Bastian Schweinsteiger who were brilliant in the quarter final hold the key for Germany as they face a side unbeaten at home for the last 30 years.

One department where Germany clearly have the edge over Brazil is the bench strength with player like Klose, Podolski and Schurrle who can have an impact on the game whenever they are pressed into service.

Germany look the better side of the two and the loss of Neymar and Silva may prove costly for the home side.