Toni Kroos vs Javier Mascherano
Kroos’ passing will be vital for Germany in what will be a heavy midfield battle. The Bayern star has completed 136 successful passes in the final third of the pitch, and is second to only Mesut Ozil (145) in the department. He was in rampant form against Brazil in the semi-final, and he will be looking to work himself into shooting positions to test Romero.
Mascherano, however, has made 28 tackles at the World Cup, which is meow than anyone else, and he will be hoping to keep Kroos quiet by sticking to him like glue. He will also be dangerous at moving the ball forward after completing 460 of his passes, showing that he is capable of winning the ball and using it smartly when he has it.