Algeria looking to repeat 1982 upset against Germany

Photo: German hit-man Muller celebrates with his teammates (Getty Images)

Algeria is one of two African nations in the knock-out stages of the World Cup but they face a daunting task against Joachim Low’s Germany. The Algerians are out to repeat their stunning 1982 victory over then European Champions West Germany. The Algerians would not have forgotten that the Germans deliberately let them get eliminated in their final group game against Austria back then.

Germany were not as impressive as was expected but they thrashed Portugal, fought hard for a point against Ghana and were made to work hard for their victory over the United States. The Germans scored 7 goals in their 3 games and took the ball out of their net on 2 occasions. They have been forced to field a makeshift back four due to their severe injury problems but changes may occur for the knock-out stages as Low looks to get the best out of the squad he has at his disposal.

Algeria overcame all odds to finish runners-up to the much fancied Belgium team ahead of Russia. Les Fennecs finished on 4 points scoring 6 goals while conceding 5 times. Their victory came in a 4-2 triumph over South Korea and they fought hard to get a point in their final game of the group stages against Russia.

Coach Vahid Halilhodzic should deploy the reliable Rais M’Bolhi in goal protected by skipper Madjid Bougherra and Rafik Halliche in central defense. Faouzi Ghoulam will return at left back while Mehdi Mostefa should feature at right back going up and down the wing as always.

The dynamic Nabil Bentaleb will be the man spraying the ball around the pitch and he should be partnered by Saphir Taider in the middle of the park. The attacking threat will be lead by Islam Slimani who has two goals so far for Les Fennecs. He will be supplied by star man Sofiane Feghouli and the tricky Yacine Brahimi.

Manuel Neuer has Die Mannschaft in safe hands as he provides their insurance between the sticks. He will be shielded by the defensive wall of Per Mertesacker and the impressive Mats Hummels. Jerome Boateng could be called upon to continue at right back but Low may opt to use skipper Philipp Lahm in that position. Erik Durm could be used at left back but Benedikt Howedes has played well so far.

Sami Khedira is likely to return in central midfield with his energy and athleticism, and he may be partnered by Toni Kroos but Bastian Schweinsteiger started against the US as he is stepping up his match fitness. Thomas Muller will be the serious threat in front of goal as he bagged 4 strikes in the group stages. He will be assisted by playmaker and magician Mesut Ozil and the stylish Mario Gotze.

It would be a real shocker if the Germans were to be eliminated by Les Fennecs because the quality of their squad should be too much for Algeria to handle. Feghouli and company can be dangerous but the German should be able to deal with their threat even though nothing will be handed to them. They will have to fight for everything against this disciplined unit that is determined to repeat their 1982 victory.

Players to Watch

Algeria – Islam Slimani, Sofiane Feghouli, Nabil Bentaleb

Germany – Thomas Muller, Mesut Ozil, Toni Kroos