U.S. defense will be challenged by unorthodox German attack

The responsibility of the U.S. back line against Germany cannot be overstated. The Germans dispense with a pure striker, instead deploying attacking midfielders who swap positions with the intent of discombobulating the defense. It is an unorthodox, though hardly unique, approach that has manufactured six goals in two games.

At least American defenders are imbued with confidence, having carried an outsized burden so far, with striker Jozy Altidore’s absence crimping the U.S. attack. And after a cram course on the system from U.S. Coach Juergen Klinsmann, a former German player and coach, the rear guard figures to be well-prepared.

A major concern within the system ought to be set pieces. Germany, the tallest team in the World Cup, is deadly on free kicks and deadlier on corners, when rangy defenders come forward to receive serves in the air. A fraternity that includes Per Mertesacker (6-foot-6), Jerome Boateng (6-4) and Mats Hummels (6-4) is lethal on headers.

From the bench, the Germans can bring on Michael Klose, their career scoring leader at the Cup. Of his 15 goals, 13 have been of the one-touch variety — the typical M.O. on set pieces.

The U.S. might opt to pack the box more than usual, especially on corners, to account for Germany’s aerial advantage.

If the set pieces are effective, it could be game, set, match for Germany.