Preview: Germany vs. Ghana

Germany will move to the brink of qualification for the last 16 of the World Cup if they can defeat Ghana in Fortaleza.

The three-time winners eased past Portugal on Monday evening, and the four-goal margin of victory means that they are almost assured of top spot if they beat Ghana, providing that USA don't win their final two games.

Coach Joachim Low is unlikely to make any alterations to a team that comprehensively overcame their main rivals in the group, and Thomas Muller will be eager to add to his hat-trick after taking an early lead in the race for the golden boot.

Competing in their third World Cup, Ghana have never failed to reach the knockout stages, but boss Akwasi Appiah will be aware that his team cannot afford defeat if they are to continue that streak.

The Black Stars put in a spirited display against the USA on Monday night before succumbing to a late goal from John Brooks, and Appiah might decide to go with the same lineup for the game with Germany.

However, if he tinkers with his side, one potential inclusion could be former Chelsea midfielder Michael Essien, who made an appearance from the substitutes' bench in the first match.

Recent form

Germany: WDDWW

Ghana: LLLWW

Possible starting lineups

Germany: Neuer; Boateng, Howedes, Mertesacker, Hummels; Lahm, Khedira, Kroos, Ozil, Gotze; Muller

Ghana: Larsen Kwarasey; Opare, Asamoah, Boye, Mensah; Muntari, Atsu, Rabiu, J.Ayew, A.Ayew; Gyan

Sports Mole says: 4-1