Germany vs. Algeria in the Round of 16 at the 2014 World Cup: Preview, TV Schedule, Live Stream, En Vivo on Univision
After breezing through the "group of death" with relative ease, Germany is set to take on Algeria in their knockout round opener.
Germany is coming off of an impressive 1-0 win against the U.S. team to secure the top seeded position in Group G. The top position allows Germany to take on Algeria instead of the dangerous Belgium team.
After failing to score a goal in the 2010 World Cup, it's a wonder Algeria made it into this year's knockout round.
Algeria has yet to be seriously tested this World Cup. They put up four goals against South Korea, becoming the first African team to do so in World Cup history.
After drawing with Russia and barely moving on to the next round, Algeria is just happy to have made it. Although they possess a speedy offense and the capability to score goals in bunches, aside from their four-goal explosion against Korea they only scored one goal in each of their other two matches.
Germany's top dog is 2010 World Cup 'Golden Boot' winner, Thomas Muller. In South Africa, Muller only needed five goals to take home the trophy, but at his current pace of four goals in three matches, Muller looks as if he will break his personal record.
Muller was able to blast a set piece goal past U.S. goalkeeper Tim Howard to give Germany the win, securing the top seeded position.
Although Germany is one of the favorites in the World Cup, they did not want to face off against Belgium so early in the tournament.
Muslim players on the Algerian team are faced with the extra stress on their bodies from fasting, as the holiday month of Ramadan is upon them. During Ramadan, Muslims observe the religious holiday by not eating or drinking during the day, which can lead to problems staying hydrated.
The Algerian team captain said that the team would discuss the best course of action to take. If Algerian players fast for Ramadan, it could mean a world of difference when facing off against the German machine.
Algeria and Germany face off Monday, in Estádio Beira-Rio, Porto Alegre. The match begins at 1 p.m. (PT) on ESPN and Univision, and can also be streamed online at ESPN.