Germany crushed South Africa and dominated the opener with 19 shots at the goal post. PHOTO: AFP
Touted as the top contenders in the men’s event, Germany crushed South Africa and dominated the opening match of the group with 19 shots at the goal post.
Christopher Zeller scored the opener in the 27th minute of the match, while Thllo Stralkowski doubled the lead in eight minutes later to go up front 2-0 in the first half.
The German attack continued to plague South Africa in the second half too as Mats Grambusch scored in the 56th minute, while Oliver Korn sealed the win for Germany three minutes later.
According to former Pakistan striker, Rehan Butt, Germany and hosts Netherlands are the favourites to qualify for the final in the 13th edition of the tournament.
He said that Germany played well, but against a weaker team like South Africa, he was expecting four more goals from the Europeans.
“Germany is a very clever side,” Butt told The Express Tribune. “Their greatest strategy is that they peak at the right time in the World Cup. They start off slow and gradually gain the momentum in the competition. They are one of the most formidable opponents for any team in the world.”
He also said that in Monday’s fixtures, Australia will have a better chance at winning against Spain in their Group A encounter.
Butt added that the main fixture on the same day would be between India and England.
“It’ll be a tough match which can also end in a draw. The English team is more consistent though, so personally I feel that England have a better chance of succeeding.”
Meanwhile, in Women’s World Cup, the US defeated England 2-1 and Germany drew against China 1-1.
Published in The Express Tribune, June 2nd, 2014.
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