Against All Odds: Germany and Ghana to entertain

The Germans ooze class going forward

The Germans got off to a fabulous start in Group F while Ghana suffered a costly defeat to the USA. They meet tonight and Paul Robinson thinks it's going to be a goal-fest.

Germany v Ghana
Saturday 21 June, 20:00 BST
Live on BBC One

Germany brushed aside Portugal in their opening match as a Thomas Muller hat trick helped them to a 4-0 win. They were of course aided by a Pepe red card, but Joachim Lw's side were already two up by that point so it's hard to take anything away from the performance.

In truth, the Germans could have had six or seven that day as they looked dangerous going forward - allaying fears that they would struggle to score goals with no first choice, recognised striker. The movement and inter-play of not only the starting forwards - but also the ones coming off the bench - was a joy to behold and they should cause any defence plenty of problems.

Ghana came into the World Cup in confident mood following their exploits in South Africa four years ago. Their spirits were dampened almost immediately though as they conceded a goal to the USA in the opening minute. Andre Ayew pulled a much deserved goal back for them, but further sloppy defending in the final five minutes allowed John Brooks to give the States all three points.

The task to qualify for Akwasi Appiah's men is now a huge one. They have Germany and Portugal left to play and it wouldn't surprise me if they exited the tournament with zero points. The Black Stars aren't a bad team - they look good going forward - but they are poor at the back, especially down the flanks. It also doesn't help that they are dreadful at defending set pieces.

This should be a high-scoring contest and I can certainly see both sides scoring. The Germans should prevail with ease though and the value has to be in opposing over 3.5 goals. That's why, at around the 1.75/7 mark, I have to make it my lay of the day. 

Recommended Bet
Lay Under 3.5 goals in Germany v Ghana @ 1.75/7 

2014 P/L (1pt each bet)

Wagered: 168 pts
Returned: 182.61 pts
P/L: + 14.61 pts (after commission)
(2013 P/L: + 3.80 pts)
(2012 P/L: + 9.60 pts)