Germany 2, Ghana 2: Thriller ends in draw
Ghana will need a win over the Germans if they hope to advance out of the group stages for the third straight World Cup. In their way is Germany, who can put one foot into the Round of 16 with a win over the African nation.
The mighty Germans looked quite mighty in their opening match victory over Portugal. Sure, a Pepe red card helped open things up for Germany, but they were already well in control of the match when the defender was sent off.
Match Preview
Despite having a lion's share of the ball against the United States, Ghana failed to do enough with it and were punished by a late game-winner from the Americans. Ghana FA representatives have spent the week denying reports of a player revolt against head coach Kwesi Appiah, after a story came out saying the players were frustrated with his tactics against the US.
On the injury front, Two German defenders are dealing with injuries ahead of the match. Mats Hummels is doubtful with a deep thigh bruise, and while Jerome Boateng is expected to play despite tearing thumb ligaments in his right hand, he'll wear a splint. For Ghana, Michael Essien missed some training during the week due to a toe injury, but he's expected to be available for the match.
Should Boateng play for Germany, he could get another chance to face his brother, Kevin-Prince Boateng, who plays for Ghana. Kevin-Prince Boateng didn't start for the Black Stars in their first match, but played well as second half substitute.
Match Date/Time: 4 p.m. local, 3 p.m. ET
Venue: Arena Castelão, Fortaleza, Brazil
TV: ESPN (U.S. - English), Univision (U.S. - Spanish), BBC One (U.K.), CBC (Canada), ARD Das Erste (Germany), ETV/SuperSport 3 Africa (Ghana)
United States announcers: Jon Champion, Stewart Robson
Online: WatchESPN (U.S.), BBC iPlayer (U.K.)