Germany employed a 4-2-3-1 formation that allowed them to dominate possession while utilizing players like Toni Kroos and Mesut Özil to control the midfield. Algeria's 4-3-3 formation emphasized quick counters and marked pressure on Germany's defenders. For 120 minutes, Algeria's discipline and tactical discipline challenged German forwards. The key battles occurred through the channels, where Germany's fullbacks, Lahm and Hector, found space but often faced frustration from Algeria's quick transitions. Goals from Schürrle and Özil showcased Germany’s ability to adapt in the final third, as they exploited gaps left by a fatigued Algerian defense, particularly after the latter’s extensive efforts to contain them had left them vulnerable in extra time.