The knockout stage is finally here and the host nation will be put to the test today, by a very tough Swedish team. Germany have beaten a poor Costa Rica side, struggled against a now departed, Poland and walloped Ecuador "b". They have not beaten a top ranked European team in six years, that's 13 matches. The defence is in for a real test today. I assume Ballack, the only real superstar in the team, will be given special attention by the Swedes.
Sweden are a very difficult team to beat and were unlucky not to top their group. New Lyon signing Kim Kallstrom and Tobias Linderoth will cause problems from set pieces and form a formidable midfield including Freddie Ljungberg. Larsson and Allback look sharp up front and "Zlatan" will be on the bench, if needed. They never know when they are beaten, coming from behind twice against England, scoring a late winner verses Paraguay and netting in the 90th minute in 4 of the previous 6 competitive games. Tight at the back too, only conceding in the England game and 4 times in 10 qualification ties.
This game could go all the way, fancy the draw today, Sweden have drawn 7 of 9, but the asian line of +1 really looks something to bet on, just cannot see the Germans winning by 2 goals. If it does go to penalties, of course, Germany is Germany, circa 13.0 for them to win on penalties is fair.
5 points Sweden +1 goal asian line 1.79
1 point Germany to win on penalties 13.0 general
1/2 point Sweden to win on penalties 15.0 general
Good Luck.
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