RodríguezAn all European clash is set to sizzle at the Maracana as France take on Germany in the quarter finals of the FIFA World Cup 2014. The Les Bleus have enjoyed a terrific campaign but in hindsight Didier Deschamps’ side haven’t been tested yet. The Die Mannschaft will be more than a serious challenge for France as a spot in the last four heats up. Can the 1998 Champions beat Joachim Loew’s side to answer back their critics or will the Germans roll past them.
Elsewhere, in the sweltering heat of Fortaleza hosts Brazil take on Colombia in the Los Cafeteros’ 20th death anniversary. The all South American clash is expected to carry a huge sense of excitement among fans with Colombia coming into this encounter with great spirit and verve with young star James Rodriguez showing the way so far for Jose Pekerman’s men.
Possible lineups and match facts:
Brazil (Possible, 4-2-3-1): Cesar; Alves, Silva, Luiz, Marcelo; Fernandinho, Gustavo; Hulk, Oscar, Neymar; Fred.
Colombia (Possible, 4-4-2): Ospina; Zúñiga, Zapata, Yepes, Armero; Cuadrado, Aguilar, Sanchez, Rodríguez; Gutiérrez, Martínez.
Referee: Carlos Velasco Carballo (Spain).
Here are some of the facts going into all European clash:
- France have faced Germany before World War II and after the fall of the Berlin wall a total of 10 times where Les Les Bleus won five and lost three matches.
- From 1952 until 1990, France have squared off with West Germany 15 times where they won six and lost five matches.
- France manager Didier Deschamps remains undefeated in 10 straight World Cup matches as a manager and a player where he picked up eight wins and two draws.
- Chelsea player Andre Schurrle has scored five goals in five competitive international matches.
- Germany will play at the World Cup quarter-finals for the ninth time in a row.
- If Lazio striker Miroslav Klose scores in this match he will become the all-time top scorer in the World Cup with 16 goals. He currently shares the top spot with Brazilian legend Ronaldo.