A rundown of the World Cup games to watch Monday:
Germany vs. Portugal
Noon, ESPN
at Salvador
Favorite: Germany
There’s plenty of injury intrigue around this tilt between two of the world’s best. Germany GK Manuel Neuer got cleared after missing a month and MF Bastian Schweinsteiger should play. Both have foot injuries. But, as with any Portugal game, the outcome may hinge on World Player of the Year Cristiano Ronaldo, who will play but has been fighting knee woes.
Iran vs. Nigeria
3 p.m., ESPN
at Curitiba
Favorite: Iran (narrowly)
Nigeria has EPL-seasoned vets John Obi Mikel, Victor Moses and Peter Odemwingie, while Iran has German-based GK Iranian Daniel Davari and captain Javad Nekounam. Coach Carlos Queiroz’ side may be slightly favored, but neither has won a World Cup game since 1998, Iran’s only victory coming over the U.S.
Ghana vs. U.S.
6 p.m., ESPN
at Natal
Favorite: Ghana
The U.S. has pointed to this game in waterlogged Natal as a must-win to survive the Group of Death. Against a team that has eliminated it with 2-1 results in the last two World Cups, that won’t be easy. Whatever formation Jurgen Klinsmann uses, Michael Bradley has to control the midfield and the centerbacks have to stay organized against Ghana’s speed.