Second Round Preview: Germany v Paraguay
June 14, 2002
After romping through the first game, Rudi Völler’s side have been exposed by Ireland and baited by the snarling Lions of Cameroon.
One person who is getting worked up is Paraguay’s Roque Santa Cruz who is relishing the prospect of playing Germany in the second round of the World Cup.
Bayern striker has colleagues in his sights
Santa Cruz, who plays his club football with Bayern Munich, said, "I'm very excited. It's something special for me because I have been dreaming of this,"
"If I have a chance, I will kill them".
Four years ago, Paraguay got through the first round but lost to eventual winners France on a golden goal scored by Laurent Blanc. This time, the target is the quarter-finals...and beyond.
Injuries and suspensions give Germans problems
Germany, however, have a proven track record in the finals and will harness former champion and coach Völler’s know-how to unlock the Paraguayans. But it won’t be easy. The three time winners of the trophy will be without key players.
German midfielder Michael Ballack has a strained left calf and is uncertain for game in Seogwipo on Saturday. Ballack missed training on Thursday as a precaution but still hopes to be fit in time to play. Carsten Ramelow, Christian Ziege and Dietmar Hamann are all suspended.
Head to head: Where will the game be won and lost?
The two goalkeepers Oliver Kahn and Jose Luis Chilavert would ordinarily not be a head-to-head, but with Chilavert often lethal from free kicks - he hit the bar against Slovenia - and penalties, the two could come into direct competition.
However, Chilavert may find his attacking instincts have to give way to a more traditional goalkeeping role, preventing Germany scoring while Kahn has shown that he is back to his best following criticism for a shaky display in the 5-1 drubbing by England during qualification.
In the Paraguay attack, Santa Cruz has undoubted potential and will be hoping to begin to fulfil it by adding to his one goal so far in the tournament. His nemesis maybe Christoph Metzelder. He is quick, strong and has looked the least vulnerable part of an unsteady German defence. His pace will be a huge asset as he tries to cope with the tricky Santa Cruz.
Klose's Golden Boot aspirations in Gamarra's hands
At the other end, Miroslav Klose is bound to be a threat from crosses and set-pieces. He will find stiff opposition in Paraguay's experienced defender Carlos Gamarra who is enjoying a resurgence in form. The Paraguayan may find that his lack of height will not help him in his duel with Klose.
Well known and respected for rarely committing fouls, Gamarra may find stopping Klose using legal methods alone to be a futile exercise.