Giroud vs Mertesacker: France vs Germany 3 Key Battles

Arsenal stars will be in abundance when France face Germany in the first World Cup quarter final to be played tomorrow.
The Kaisers have not been in top form and could only scrape past Algeria in extra time. France on the other hand have been better than the three time World Champions.
In many ways, this is the pick of the quarter final ties and the neutrals will hope that they witness an entertaining contest. Here are the three key battles that may decide the game between France and Germany.
Giroud vs Mertesacker
The direct battle between the two Gunners is going to be intriguing. Giroud was in brilliant form against Switzerland but could not replicate that vs Nigeria.
However, Germans were troubled by the direct football of Algerians in the R16 contest and keeping that in view, Deschamps might start Giroud again. Mertesacker knows all about his Arsenal team mate and will be helped by returning Mats Hummels.
Varane vs Muller
Muller is the stand out World Cup player once again for the German side with 4 goals and 2 assists. Varane could only play 16 minutes of the CL 2nd leg in which Real thrashed Muller’s Bayern. However, he has been a key star in this competition for Les Bleus and the youngster will have to be on his toes to stop the in form German forward.
Lloris vs Neuer
Although, both Neuer and Lloris have been over shadowed by goalies like Ochoa and Howard but still the duo are two of the best and most experienced goalkeepers. Neuer will hope he will not have to perform the role of the sweeper as often as he did against Algeria. Always a possibility of the game going to penalties, who will come out on top, we shall see.
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