In Saturday’s 2010 FIFA World Cup quarterfinal, injured Germany captain Michael Ballack has predicted that his side will beat Argentina 3-1, after watching the team train here on Friday. The 33-year-old midfielder told German daily that he could offer little advice to the young side, which has produced some electrifying football. Ballack, Germany’s star midfielder was ruled out because of an injured ankle during FA Cup Finals in May.
On Friday, Ballack came to Green Point Stadium to watch the side train on the eve of their quarterfinal showdown. The Germany squad has an average age of just under 25 and they are considered as one of the most youngest team in 2010 FIFA World Cup. Ballack was quite impressed with the practice session.
“I have no advice to give the team; everything is going really well, what they have achieved so far is fantastic. Under these conditions, we have our chances against Argentina and I predict a 3-1 victory”, said Ballack.
With a 4-0 win over Australia in the group stages, Joachim Low’s Germany has caught the eye at South Africa 2010. In last Sunday’s Round of 16 match, they hammered Fabio Capello’s England 4-1. At the end of last season, Ballack was released by Chelsea and he has rejoined one of his former clubs Bayer Leverkusen. To visit his compatriots, he has flown to South Africa.
In next Wednesday’s semi-final in Durban, if Germany beat Argentina, they will face Spain or Paraguay and Ballack will remain with them at their hotel on the outskirts of Pretoria. German Chancellor Angela Merkel will meet South Africa’s President Jacob Zuma and she is expected to attend Saturday’s quarterfinal during the course of her visit.
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