Algeria is emerging as a darkhorse favorite in the World Cup as they have excelled through this point of tournament play. Not too many people expected the team to reach the knockout stage of the World Cup, but after getting a draw against Russia, they are prepared to square off against Germany who has yet to impress in their run. Germany has been hot and cold through group play which Algeria is hoping works to their advantage.
Germany has not been the most consistent team thus far in the World Cup. At times, they have looked like the best team in the tournament while showing their roster weaknesses in other games. The Germany team will get a boost with Mario Gotze returning to the field. He will headline an attacking trio. He was originally replaced by Lukas Podolski but earned back the favor of his coach. Bastian Schweinsteiger will also be on the field with Sami Khedira's health in question.
Germany is the heavy favorite in the match no matter how much defensive weaknesses they have displayed during the tournament. Algeria's defense plans on making Thomas Muller their main focus since the goal scorer in leading the charge and will certainly challenge the unit. He has been one of the best World Cup performers so far in the tournament. If Algeria plans on slowing him down, discipline will be key.
Algeria came into the World Cup with almost no expectations. They won their preliminary qualifying group and were thrown in to face Russia and Belgium something that was not an easy task. However, they bounced back with a win over South Korea and a draw against Russia to push them into the Round of 16. The team has never made it this far in tournament play and need to remain focuses instead of getting overwhelmed. Their roster has shown great versatility that will come in hand against Germany. They have frustrated teams with their ability to press, but how will that match up against a team that rarely makes an error?
Prior to the start of the World Cup, a matchup between Germany and Algeria looked very lopsided. However, Algeria has proved they deserve to be in this tournament with momentum in their favor. Germany is the favorite to reach the next round, but Algeria could cause them a few headaches a stumble in this match.