Germany and Ghana settled for an exciting draw when they finished 2-2 in their Group G game in Fortaleza. The three-time world champion Germany came from behind in a see-saw battle to avoid any sort of upset.
The first half went goalless with both teams getting a couple of goal scoring opportunities going either way. Manuel Neuer had to make two saves when the Ghanaians tested him from distance. As the second half began both teams showed eagerness to get into the lead. It was Germany who made the breakthrough when Mario Goetze put them ahead in the 51st minute. Ghana did not have to wait long for the equalizer which came through Ayew in the 53rd minute from a well placed header. Ghana then took the lead when Gyan blasted one shot past Neuer in the 63rd minute. Going down 2-1, Germany made a couple of changes as they brought on Schweinsteiger and Miroslav Klose. And within a few minutes Germany was back on level terms. Klose with his first touch scored the equalizer for his nation with which he equals the record of Brazilian Ronaldo of scoring the most number of goals in world cup (15).
Germany began to put pressure on Ghana but the Africans stayed put to deny them any close look at the goal. Ghana however got two clear chances at the other, one while Germany was trailing 2-1 and the other in the 90th minute. The first one did not turn into a goal for their captain’s selfishness as his shot was easily saved by the goalie while Gyan was in a better position and a pass would have sealed the game. The second opportunity went begging as the forwards were caught offside. The German defense at times were in tatters as Phillip Lahm who had a poor outing failed to keep the possession on number of occasions.
Germany, despite this draw, which is almost equivalent to a defeat, is on course for the next round. But Ghana who needed a win to stay in the hunt is now in danger of early exit. A win for Portugal against USA will seal their fate tonight. Till then nothing can be stated as this world cup has hit the headlines for being the most competitive one with even the lesser known teams taking up the fight to the bigger names.
