IT'S NO EXAGGERATION to say this Germany team is as talented as any the U.S. has ever faced in a World Cup.

The Germans are deservedly ranked No. 2 in the world and are absolutely loaded with truly world-class players. As many as six starters could come from the Bayern Munich team that has dominated Europe for the past few years, while Champions League runner-up Borussia Dortmund as well as red-hot Arsenal will also contribute their fair share of impact players to the squad.

Germany is not invincible, but it has made at least the semifinals in the past two European Championships and World Cups and will plan on doing the same this time around.

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As for this cycle, Germany led all of Europe in goals scored in World Cup qualifying, netting a cool 36 in just 10 games on their way to securing 28 out of a possible 30 points. It was the type of performance that one has come to expect from the Germans, who have been the class of Europe alongside Spain for the better part of the last decade.

For all of their offensive dominance, it was not an entirely flawless qualifying campaign. Seventeen European teams conceded fewer goals than Germany, as all of that offense brought about a bit of instability at the back. Minor defensive weakness aside, the Germans left no doubt about their qualification as they cruised into the tournament yet again.

FORECAST

Considering just how potent the Germans are when teams are forced to attack them, the U.S.’s top priority will be not conceding an early goal. If Klinsmann’s men can withstand the early pressure, the U.S. will have a fighting chance.

In Germany’s three losses in the past two major tournaments (two in the 2010 World Cup, one in Euro 2012), an interesting trend has emerged. In each loss, Germany conceded at least one goal via a cross. It’s a slight deficiency that the U.S. will look to exploit. And it’s a deficiency that Klinsmann seems to be well aware of, on the basis of the 4-3 win in June at least.

Now, the two U.S. goals from crosses came against a German team missing its Bayern and Dortmund contingent, but it is the system more so than the players that makes Germany vulnerable. By fielding three skilled creative midfielders in front of the two holding midfielders, Germany often leaves massive gaps in front of its fullbacks, as the likes of Ozil, Reus, Gotze, et al. often forgo their defensive duties. It’s a tactical weakness that is illustrated perfectly in Jozy Altidore’s opener.—BLAKE THOMSEN