Lahm - Leading Germany to Victory

Germany finished top of Group G unbeaten in all three games in the group stage. Although they began the competition with a clinical 4-0 win over Portugal, they struggled against Ghana in their second game and managed only a 2-2 draw, and earned a hard fought 1-0 win against their final match against the USA. Tonight they face Algeria, one of only two survivors of the African contingent in the competition. Germany’s best player of this world cup has undoubtedly been Thomas Muller, who has already notched 4 goals in 3 games. Although, they will require much more than just Muller’s goal scoring prowess to beat a hard-working, high-spirited Algerian team. 

  Germany’s captain Philip Lahm, one of their most experienced players, will be crucial in the heart of the German midfield if they are to progress.

The 30-year old, known as the ‘Magic Dwarf’ is also the club captain of German champions Bayern Munich. For most of his career, Lahm has been deployed as a full back. He can play on both the right and left flanks of the field. Recently, under the management of current Bayern coach Pep Guardiola, Lahm has been shifted into a more central position. His technical ability and tactical skills have helped him excel in this role and have also convinced his national team coach to play him in that role in the ongoing World Cup.

Lahm’s performances in the 3 matches so far have been inconsistent. He was solid in midfield against Portugal and USA but was often caught out against an attacking Ghanaian team. His initial mistake allowed Ghana to run through and score their second goal in the match that ended in a 2-2 draw.

In tonight’s match, he will have to display a more convincing performance against a team that have strong, tireless players who will undoubtedly make the Germans break a sweat. This game will be won or lost in midfield and Lahm will be expected to play an important role in reading the play, intercepting attacks and leading build-up plays.


Speed, ball control and great slide tackles. Lahm is known for all this and much more, and is capable of being the captain who slides Germany into the quarter-finals.