Germany starting XI: Manuel Neuer; Jerome Boateng, Mats Hummels, Benedikt Hoewedes; Sami Khedira, Bastian Schweinsteiger, Philipp Lahm, Toni Kroos, Mesut Ozil; Thomas Mueller, Miroslav Klose
France starting XI: Hugo Lloris; Mathieu Debuchy, Raphael Varane, Mamadou Sakho, Patrice Evra; Yohan Cabaye; Mathieu Valbuena, Blaise Matuidi, Paul Pogba; Karim Benzema, Antoine Griezmann
- 300 000 German fans assembled in Berlin to watch the game (via @_Borsti)
It was a matter of two European heavy weights facing off. Both previous World Champions. Neighbours. Before the game, questions were raised over the fitness of the German side, Mats Hummels was so unwell he couldn’t make it to training, and 7 other German players were reportedly exhibiting flu like symptoms. On the French side Sakho was back, fit from injury, and Griezmann got the nod ahead of Giroud. It was a clinical display from the Germans as they piped Les Bleus 1-0 thanks to a tantalizing Mats Hummels header from a set piece. On the night, the better team won. Here’s my pick of the best players from the game:
The Top 5 Players from tonight’s game
5) Paul Pogba
The best player on the field for France, he added some dynamic to the french attack.
4) Philipp Lahm
Back to his usual full back position, as opposed to defensive midfield (which was a disaster against Algeria). He looked much more confidant here. He also assisted the attack by driving the ball forward
3) Toni Kroos
He had a good game in the midfield and provided the delivery for Hummel’s goal from a free kick.
2) Manuel Neuer
Solid at the back, he made a few good saves. One early attempt from Valbuena and a late Benzema chance are two of note. But his defense did their job so he wasn’t stretched to his limit
1) Mats Hummels
He was central to a good defensive performance as a whole from the Germans. He scored the only goal of the game, sending the Germans through.
Mats Hummels celebrates his goal vs France (via @UEFAEURO)
