(Getty Images)
SALVADOR, Brazil - Thomas Mueller scored three times as Germany dominated Portugal 4-0 to open group play on the right foot Monday.
The Germans struck early in the 12th minute on a Mueller penalty kick and a Mats Hummels header in the 32nd, then the collapse of the Portuguese commenced.
Portugal defender Pepe received a straight red in the 38th minute for head butting Mueller after a challenge in the defensive third and they played with 10 men for the rest of the match allowing the Germans to take advantage.
After a second Mueller goal, the 2010 third-place finishers ended the first half up 3-0, scoring its goals in a 30 minute span, and Germany continued to breakdown Portugal in the second half allowing Mueller to score his third and become the 49th player to earn a hat-trick in World Cup competition.
The win gives the German's a well-deserved three points in Group G, but leaves Portugal in questioning after being shutout and force to face the United States without Pepe and possibly two others due to injury.
The Portuguese repeatedly tried to force the issue by getting its star Christian Ronaldo involved every attacking possession, only to come up short by the German defense numerous times. Despite only being out-possesed 54%-46% and being outshot 14-13, the Germans had absolute control from the opening kick being able to send numbers forward and rely on the attacking power of Mueller and Mario Gotze.
The four goal deficit was Portugal's worst loss in World Cup history and are 0-3 against Germany in international tournaments.
Germany will play its next match against Ghana, who they faced in group stage back in South Africa 2010, Saturday June 21 while Portugal takes on the United States Sunday June 22 in Manaus.
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