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Germany

Coach Joachim Loew has no suspension worries ahead of Sunday's massive clash. Striker Miroslav Klose was suspended against Ghana in their last group game but is available for selection against England. However, Bastian Schweinsteiger is struggling with a thigh muscle problem and there is considerable doubt on whether or not he can start in the midfield.

If the Bayern Munich star doesn't, then Toni Kroos will be his replacement. Left-back Jerome Boateng too is struggling for fitness and is likely to be replaced by Holger Badstuber. Playmaker Mesut Oezil is expected to start although he was hit with a family tragedy on Friday as his grandmother passed away.

Probable Lineup (4-2-3-1): Neuer, Friedrich, Mertesacker, Badstuber, Lahm; Khedira, Kroos; Mueller, Oezil, Podolski; Klose

England

Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher is available for selection after sitting out the group stage match against Slovenia because of suspension. He will slot into center-back replacing Matthew Upson. Ledley King has resumed full training but will undergo a late fitness test to see if he can start ahead of Carragher. Wayne Rooney and Jermain Defoe will start upfront and James Milner will be deployed in midfield. Joe Cole has recovered his fitness but is likely to start on the bench.

Probable Lineup (4-4-2): James' Johnson, Terry, Carragher, A. Cole; Milner, Barry, Lampard, Gerrard; Rooney, Defoe

PREDICTION

Germany-England clashes are always classics and this game promises to be one. Both sides have reasons to be optimistic: Germany have looked slick and creative upfront while England have rediscovered the spirit and urge to win.

The Castrol World Cup match predictor gives Germany a 46% chance of winning the match while England are given a 54% chance. Indeed, it's a very close call to make but Germany should just about sneak a win. However, the 2006 World Cup semi-finalists must take care to see that they don't concede first.

Germany 2-1 England