Germany Vs Portugal 4:0 Mueller Score 3, PEPE red card / Have a Fun Flag Wig !

 
On paper Mario Götze was on the left, while Arsenal’s Mesut Özil occupied the false nine spot. Within the opening minute though, Thomas Müller was leading Germany’s line. By full time, he had more than justified coach Joachim Löw’s decision to pick lightly when it came to striking options. A hat-trick later and Germany’s quest for success had started in the best possible fashion.
Löw’s decision to opt for the false-nine system sent a shiver of concern around Germany fans. The fluid front-four system hasn’t been running as smoothly as planned during their preparation, but against Portugal Löw’s attacking charges moved faster for longer – the opening goal was the perfect example of what Germany are capable of.
Yes, Pepe’s red card afforded Germany more space, but even before their numerical advantage the combination play was fantastic. Götze had one of his best games in a Germany shirt, only marring his performance by missing a glorious chance to score after substitute Schürrle – who impressed in a half an hour cameo – found him with a sublime pass. Özil also showed signs of returning to form, but like his attacking team-mate blemished his card by failing to score.

Germany fans celebrate their emphatic win against Portugal (Picture: Getty Images)

Germany could have had more, but the manner of their opening performance at the 2014 World Cup is the perfect statement to support the sentiment that it’s now or never for Löw and his side. At the start, with captain Philipp Lahm looking rushed and uncomfortable under pressure, the game looked as evenly balanced as first considered.

Cue Götze, Müller and Özil. The former persisted after the latter flicked on, leaving Müller to open the scoring. More superb interplay followed and it positively affected the rest of the team. Lahm executed a textbook tackle, Mats Hummels headed home a magnificent second and before Ronaldo had time to roam, the game was over.

Aside from Müller somewhat spoiling his day with his initial grounding in Pepe’s dismissal and a knock to Hummels, this was a flawless Germany performance. Toni Kroos, aided by a slightly deeper Lahm, performed and Sami Khedira was able to provide support from midfield befitting Bastian Schweinsteiger.

Germany have arrived at the 2014 World Cup. The 4-0 mauling of Portugal might have sent fewer tremors than Netherland’s 5-1 win over defending champions Spain, but the message of intent is just as scary.

Shutting down Ronaldo and Portugal’s midfield by constantly working with an evolving 4-3-3 formation was a joy to behold. The inflicted personnel changes cornered the conservative Löw, but perhaps his forced hand is a winning one.

On this evidence, it’s hard to disagree. Now all he needs to do is to go all in when the time is right.

by  Independent / www.FlagWigs.com