Germany Vs. Algeria: Prediction, Preview And Betting Odds For World Cup 2014

In the knockout phase of the World Cup for the first time in the country’s history, there might be a chance that Algeria will already taking a step back and taking satisfaction in their achievements, particularly with one of the tournament favorites now standing in their way of progressing any further. Instead, the identity of their opponents in the Round of 16 will insure that the minds of the Algerian team are focused squarely on the matter at hand. The only previous time that Algeria threatened to make an impact on the global stage was 32 years ago. Then, in the World Cup in Spain, the Fennec Foxes had shocked the reigning European champions, the then West Germany, with a 2-1 win on the opening day. A further win against Chile meant that only a victory by a one- or two-goal margin by West Germany over Austria in the group’s final game could eliminate them. West Germany went 1-0 up early before the rest of the game was played out with shots or even tackles an ever-increasing rarity. Algeria and the rest of the world were outraged. Algeria exited with their dignity intact, as the sham forced the current policy of the final round of group fixtures now kicking off at the same time.  The memories, though, remain. ‘We have not forgotten,’ Algeria coach Vahid Halilhodzic said after his side secured a draw with Russia to reach the last 16. ‘Everybody has been talking about Algeria and Germany from 1982.’
Prediction
Algeria should provide some initial strong resistance, but it would be a surprise were Germany not able to find a way through. Joachim Löw’s team utilized a large number of crosses in their 1-0 win over the United States and looked more dangerous in doing so when introducing Klose. It might be a wise move to start with the striker on Monday, with two of the five goals Algeria have conceded coming from high crosses and both goals scored against them by South Korea coming off the back of direct balls into the box. Of course the movement of Müller and, if selected, Mario Götze and Mesut Özil, can also cause ample problems.
Algeria can certainly pose a threat on the break. Their best player, Feghouli, will be going up against Germany’s weak link, an out-of-position Benedikt Höwedes. Germany should progress, but, like 1982, Algeria should leave with their heads held high.
Germany 2-0 Algeria
Betting odds (bovada.lv)
In 90 minutes:
Germany win: 2/7
Algeria win: 17/2
Draw: 5/1
To progress:
Germany: 2/15
Algeria: 7/1
(According to International Business Times)