France and Germany will contest the first World Cup quarterfinal on Friday, with both European sides being among the favorites to win the entire competition this year.
Germany have been among the favorites since the start of the tournament, but France have emerged as serious contenders after a number of extremely impressive displays.
Both teams will feel they have a good chance of winning today, and for Germany in particular, they will have to raise their game if they are to defeat their European neighbors.
Germany struggled in their game against Algeria and were considered lucky to win through by many. France meanwhile, have played some irresistible football at times, and if they can continue that form against a strong Germany side today then they could pull off an upset.
France have scored 10 goals so far this tournament, which is more than their three most recent World Cups combined prior to this competition. All 10 goals have also come from within the penalty box.
France have an excellent record in Brazil; losing only one game ever in the country, winning 6 and drawing 3 of their 10 games there. They have also not conceded a first-half goal in any of their last 12 games, so start of games strong in defense. They have also hit the post more times than any other team in the competition so far.
Germany meanwhile are looking to make history today. If they win they will have made the semi-finals of four consecutive World Cups, something no other team has ever done.
They are unbeaten in their last 15 internationals, with 10 wins and 5 draws in that span of games. That is the best run of any side remaining at the World Cup this year.
France vs Germany can be watched online by clicking here.
See a preview video of Team Germany below:
