Germany proved invulnerable to minimal resistance as they waltzed to the second round with an unblemished record, capturing the full nine points from their three games against inferior opposition.
They dominated Costa Rica in the first game, scoring four goals, although all was not necessarily well after surrendering two goals to former Manchester City striker Paulo Wanchope.
Defensive worries for the host nation were quickly quashed with suffocating performances in their next two games, both shutout victories against Poland and Ecuador.
Their next opponents haven't looked nearly as impressive. In Sweden's first game, they failed to solve the vexing Trindad and Tobago defense, as the game ended scoreless.
Sweden controlled the second game much as they did the first one, but Paraguay proved every bit as stubborn as their previous foes. In the end, an 89th minute cleverly directed header from Freddie Ljungberg proved to be the difference maker.
In their last game against England, they had the better of chances overall, but their goalkeeping and defense were slightly exposed as they gave up two goals, but battled back from deficits both times to earn a well-deserved 2-2 draw with the Lions.
The Germans now look every bit the tournament favorite casual fans would think they are based on the formula of prior World Cup performances coupled with the advantage that comes from playing all of your games in front of patriotic crowds.
But how much do we really know about Germany? Sure, they've looked good, but that might have more to do with the lack of strength from their opposition as opposed to the strength of Juergen Klinsmann's team. Add to it that the tightest game they were involved in, a 1-0 win against Poland, they faced no offensive pressure. And I just wonder what would happen if they had to come from behind for the first time in this tournament.
Fortunately for the Germans (and unfortunately if you root Sweden), I doubt the Swedes possess the makeup to take that all important lead. Health to key players (Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Ljungberg) raises serious doubts, as does their lack of offensive potency.
If you're rooting for Sweden, set pieces might add a glimmer of hope. Four separate times, Sweden troubled England on corner kicks, and both goals came from dead ball situations (a corner kick and a throw in).
There is no doubt the Swedes showed they have the heart to compete, but they will be outmanned both on the field and in the stands. Germany marches to the quarterfinals with a 2-0 win.
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