Preview RUS-GER: Germany siege Moscow

Hello all Russia fans. As all of you are aware, Russia will playing Germany tomorrow in Moscow at the Luzhniki Stadium. This game will decide the first and second placements of the group. If Germany wins, they will qualify automatically and force Russia to a playoff. If Russia win, they will solidify first place provided they win against Azerbaijan in Baku on October 14.

Russia
Russia go into the game with plenty of momentum from their previous qualifiers and may have the edge playing in Moscow. The circumstances surrounding the game are very similar to the Russia-England game back in 2007. However, it is important to note that Germany is stronger than England in 2007. Given the squad, Guus Hiddink is likely to field a squad similar to the previous qualifiers the the exception of Denis Kolodin. As for Kolodin, I think the Berezutski brothers provide excellent cover. Another notable absentee is Gabulov but Hiddink has replaced him with Spartak’s Soslan Dzhanayev. I am concerned about the form of Pavlyuchenko, but he has had an unusual pattern of scoring for country while being unfit for his club.

Germany
Like Russia, Germany go into this game having won their last five qualifiers. Also Germany won the first game in Dortmund a year ago. Low like Hiddink has a fully fit squad and a full house of regulars. I do have to point out however, Germany have not been able to find a consistent goalkeeper for the number one spot. I think this makes Germany vulnerable to strikers like Arshavin, Kerzhakov, and Porgrebnyak.

Prediction: RUS 1-1 GER

I think that both teams look even, which will result in a draw.

Enjoy the game, look out for a another post after the game.