Sport360° writers predict outcome of World Cup final

Sport360 staff 13:00 13/07/2014
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  • Feisty final: Could Argentina prevail against the well-groomed Germany?

    It is an extremely tough call predicting who is going to come out on top in the World Cup final tonight between Germany and Argentina.

    Germany are going into the game as the favourites after crushing the host's Brazil, 7-1 in the semi-final. 

    However, Argentina do have a magician in attack that will be doing everything in his power to make sure he is remembered as a World Cup legend.

    Could this be little Lionel's night or will the Germans overpower another South-American nation? 

    Here are the Sport 360° writers predictions…

     Steve McKenlay – Editor

    After Germany’s total annihilation of Brazil it’s hard to imagine they could be any more confident. The Dutch managed to stifle Messi in the semi-final but I will be surprised if Germany adopt that style. With that in mind, I think Messi will have more space to operate and while it will be a close game, Argentina will rise to the occasion and secure a win after extra time.

    Germany 1-2 (AET) Argentina

    James Piercy – Deputy Editor

    Maybe it’s wishful thinking but I think each side is capable of opening the other up. While Belgium and the Dutch both sat deep, Germany press higher up the field so Lionel Messi could have some joy in the final third. Germany’s attacking ability is superior to anything Argentina have faced so far, plus they’re very effective on set pieces and I’m still not convinced by Sergio Romero.

    Germany 3-2 Argentina

     Andy Lewis – News Editor

    Germany are fresher having had their semi-final won inside half an hour plus an extra day’s rest, while Argentina toiled through 120 minutes and penalties to reach the final. I’d expect the South Americans to find more space than they managed against the Dutch and pose a threat on the counter, but Germany look stronger all over and have good attacking options
    from the bench to exploit tired legs.

    Germany 2-1 Argentina

    Martyn Thomas- Reporter

    Germany are on a roll, but they will not have it all their own way tonight. They cannot be as cavalier as they were against Brazil largely due to the threat posed by one man, Lionel Messi. He demands the attention of defenders, and with Javier Mascherano on form and Angel Di Maria back in contention, I expect him to fulfill his destiny and get his hands on the famous trophy tonight.

    Germany 0-1 Argentina

    Matt Monaghan – Reporter

    Form points firmly in Germany’s direction, but Lionel Messi has the power to buck all predictions. A lack of raw pace at the heart of Die Mannschaft’s defence will be key. Javier Mascherano must also be at his disruptive best to break Germany’s passing carousel. If that occurs, Messi will be able to secure glory for his nation and a place for himself as a World Cup legend.

    Germany 1-2 Argentina

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