Germany risk Ballack to clinch top spot

GERMANY will risk losing Michael Ballack to suspension in tonight’s game against Ecuador in the hope of maintaining their momentum and clinching top spot in Group A to avoid England in the second round.

Ballack already has a yellow card and one more against the in-form South Americans would see Germany’s captain ruled out for the next game.

“Ballack will play whatever the circumstances,” Germany’s assistant coach Joachim Loew confirmed. “We’ll just have a word with him and tell him to avoid making unnecessary fouls.”

Germany have played much better than England, who just need to draw with Sweden to clinch first place in Group B, but they would still rather avoid their old rivals at this early stage.

“England haven’t been convincing but they would raise their game for a one-off match,” Loew warned.

Germany may make a couple of changes as they seek the win they need. Christoph Metzelder is recovering from a knee injury and may have to be replaced by Robert Huth.

Bastian Schweinsteiger and Lukas Podolski, disappointing against Poland, could lose out to Tim Borowski and Neuville.

Ecuador’s hopes of maintaining a perfect start could be hit by an ankle injury to striker Carlos Tenorio. Ivan Kaviedes, who scored the third goal against Cost Rica, looks set to come in.

Coach Luis Fernando Suarez, who may rest players on yellow cards, was clear where the main German danger would come from.

“Germany have some good players, but Ballack is the great talent. We have beaten Brazil and Argentina. Let’s see if we have the same luck against Germany.”