World Cup Trivia: Semifinals Prediction Brazil vs Germany

Brazil vs Germany

It was an eventful day where both Germany and Brazil outclassed their opponents. Germany, held their defense rock solid amidst France efforts to level the score; Brazil, on the other hand, constantly put the Colombians on the edge of their toes.

(Do watch the stunning free kick by David Luiz if you haven't. Definitely worth your time to catch.)

My prediction on these 2 quarterfinal matches was 50% accurate. Regardless, this is a set up for an EPIC match where the favourites both enter to the next round and face each other. Who will win in this semifinal match? Let's see what has changed...

Developments for the Brazil team since quarterfinals

Star striker Neymar is out of the World cup due to a broken vertebrae. 

Why is he important? If you look at the goals scored, chances created, shots on goal, as well as attacking touches, the 22 year old soccer prodigy ranks first among his team. Though he did not score in the colombia match, he was the clear threat which drew quite a few defenders to allow other players to find the net.

Why this may not be important? With the depth of the Brazilian team, they are still indubitably a force to be reckon with Hulk as the main striker.

Captain and central defender Thiago Silva will also be out due to second yellow card

Now with one key player out, Brazil might be able to manage. With their captain and heart of the defence out as well, Coach Scolari will need to think of a strategy to fortify the team's defence.

Developments for the German team since quarterfinals

Nothing much but good news for the Germans.

With this victory over France, Germany gains a new accolade of being the first nation to reach FOUR consecutive World Cup semifinals.

Win at all costs
This match against France saw the Germans scaling back their attacks after their first goal in the 15th minute. It was agonizing to watch as they disrupted France's attacks, held possession and executed strategic fouls to slow down the opponent's pace. Yet, they are unlike the 100% defensive style of Greece, as they can capitalize on defence gaps with their efficient strikers when the opportunity arises.

Statistics analysis of Brazil vs Germany

	Brazil	Germany
World Cups won	5	3
Goals scored	10	10
Attempts per match	16.4	14.8 (Only took Germany 3 shots on target to seal the game against France)
Shots on target	70%	70%
Passes completed	1816	2938 (Gasp!)
Passes completion %	70%	80%
Key man to watch	Defender: David Luiz (Strong in defence yet a clear threat in his shots. Reminds me of Roberto Carlos)	Keeper: Manuel Neuer (Splendid reflexes against France) Efficient attacking force: Thomas Mueller, Mesut Ozil, Mario Goetze

Prediction: The pick is hard on this one.

I would still go with Brazil to extend their record win of 5 world cups. I am rooting for Brazil as their dynamic, fast-paced style of football is not something Germany's efficient, mechanical soccer style can manage.


Brazil or Germany, tell us your pick!
EUFASS


World Cup Trivia is a series designed for the current World Cup 2014 to give fans more than one ways to savour the game.