Northern Ireland have a daunting task at hand as they take on the Germans in Group C clash in what is perceived to be a rather one-sided affair. Germany will be confident going into this particular encounter but will be wary of the threat Michael O’Neill’s side possess. A win for either side would all but ensure their spot in the round of 16.
Qualification to the next round is highly likely for Northern Ireland, a defeat against Joachim Loew’s men notwithstanding.
Germany is yet to concede at the Euro 2016 and it would require a performance of extraordinary quality of football to break the deadlock. Northern Ireland will have to come out all guns blazing and carry their form from their exhilarating 2-0 win against Ukraine. A defeat for Ireland would set them up for a clash with the runners-up from group A in the next round.
Here are 5 players who may play a decisive role for respective teams as they go head to head at Parc des Princes in Paris:
#1 Toni Kroos
Toni Kroos has been in fine form off late and Germany will be dependent on him to pull the strings in the midfield.
His performance against Ukraine was reminiscent of the midfielder’s very best as he dictated the tempo and assisted Shkodran Mustafi with a sublime cross for the opening goal. Despite being relatively quiet against Poland, the 26-year-old managed to control the game from the center of the field.
With Northern Ireland probably set to camp in their own half, his creativity and balls from deeper regions of the midfield will be of vital importance. His presence is made all the more important due to his ability to be highly influential even in the final third. The onus of chance creation and responsibility of execution of a potential plan B will firmly rest on his shoulders.
Thus far he has shown that he is determined to lead his side to success and the German fans will be hoping that he carries on with his scintillating recent form in the game against Northern Ireland as well.
#2 Thomas Muller
Thomas Muller has had a knack of scoring goals on every International platform and yet the 26-year-old faces a goal drought of sorts after failing to have scored in the last seven games over two European competitions.
The Bayern Munich star must be desperate to put an end to this and prove himself in the International arena again when he starts against Northern Ireland.
Despite a sharp dip in his recent goal-scoring form, Muller still remains Germany’s main man during attacks. His ability in front of the goal as well as his movement off it will be of paramount importance in a game which could limit Germany to very few clear-cut chances owing to their opposition sitting deep in their own half. He may even be deployed in a lone striker role with Mario Gotze being shifted to the right wing.
His all-important duel against the defensive pairing of Jonny Evans and Gareth McAuley might have a direct impact on the outcome of the game.
#3 Jerome Boateng
Jerome Boateng has successfully maintained parity at the back despite being paired with two different centre-backs over the course of last two games. The 27-year-old has been exceptional in both the games as he helped the side to two successive clean-sheets with two virtually faultless displays at the back.
His acrobatic clearance on the line against Ukraine was the highlight of the game. Apart from that, he made several important ball recoveries for the Germans.
His distribution from deep and his trademark cross-field balls have been a key feature of the game. His long balls can help the Germans punish the opposition in any laxity in marking. Moreover, his short-distribution and decision-making have also been up to the mark.
Apart from this, the defender is quite good in the air both offensively and defensively and offers an aerial threat for the Germans during set-pieces.
#4 Gareth McAuley
Northern Ireland is likely to play on the counter against the Germans and Gareth McAuley will have to play a key role on either side of the pitch if Ireland want to eke out a win or hold Germany to a draw.
The 36-year-old did just that in the game against Ukraine as he maintained his composure at the back, partnering Jonny Evans and helping the team to a clean-sheet. In addition, the 6ft 3inch centre-back managed to get on the score-sheet after heading in from a corner.
McAuely will have to lead the backline and keep the defense organized against incessant German attacks and will have to initiate quick counters as and when possible. Apart from trying to hurt Germany on the counter, Ireland must see to it that they make the most of setpieces.
]McAauley must see to it that he avails of every opportunity and prove to be an aerial nuisance for the Germans.
#5 Steven Davis
Steven Davis has played a significant role in Northern Ireland’s qualification to the finals of the Euros. Deemed to be rather quiet and humble, the 31-year-old has led Northern Ireland from the front.
The Southampton player has been an integral part of their Southampton’s midfield and will have to play a key role on Tuesday if Northern Ireland want to cause an upset. He has had a decent Euros campaign up until now for the Irish.
The midfielder will have to see to it that he carries the ball forward and regulate the pace of counters. He is also known to adapt quickly to the complexion of the game and may switch to a box to box role if the need arises.
He will have to see to it that the Irish midfield neutralizes that of Germany by staying tight and smothering them of space in and around the box.
