Germany, Mexico aim to end Confederations Cup campaign on a high note

Germany will face Mexico in Leipzig on Wednesday in the playoff for third place at the FIFA Confederations Cup 2005. Despite the fact that there is no trophy at stake, there remains a huge amount of interest in this game which will be played in front of a sell-out crowd of 42,500.

There is great expectation among fans, players and team management alike ahead of this clash between the two group winners who were knocked out at the semi-final stage.

The Mannschaft face a tough encounter against the Mexicans, the surprise package of the tournament. Ricardo Lavolpe's men defeated the world champions Brazil in the group stage and only went out on penalties against Argentina in the semi-finals. Hence Klinsmann's words of respect for his opponents.

History suggests that Germany are favourites, however. In nine appearances against Mexico, the Mannschaft have won four, drawn four and lost only one. What is more, Mexico's only win dates back almost exactly 20 years to 15 June 1985, when they defeated the Europeans 2-0 in Mexico City.

Germany emerged as victors from the last meeting between the two countries, in the last 16 at the 1998 FIFA World Cup in France. Mexico lost that match in Montpellier 2-1, going down to goals from Klinsmann and Bierhoff, ironically. And now the tournament hosts are hoping for another victory to secure third place.

However, Mexico are not prepared to settle for fourth position. After recovering from the bitter disappointment of going out to Argentina in the semi-final. If they are to achieve this, Mexico will once again have to be on top form.

Those lucky enough to have tickets for the game at Leipzig's Zentralstadion can look forward to a fascinating encounter between the highest-scoring attack of the tournament and the strongest defence. Germany have scored eleven goals in their last four games while Mexico have conceded only two.

Sports Betting Game Odds from: BODOG Sports Betting

Head-To-Head:

Germany

-135

Mexico +295

Draw +220

Prediction: A third place finish is a good consolation prize for the Germans. Mexico's incredible scoring run will end. Oliver Kahn will shut down Mexico's attackers. Germany to win 1-0.

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