Germany could lose Schweinsteiger By Sports Network

BLOEMFONTEIN - Germany midfielder Bastian Schweinsteiger could miss Sunday's FIFA World Cup round of 16 match against England with a thigh injury.

Schweinsteiger left Germany's final group stage game against Ghana, a 1-0 win, in the 81st minute Wednesday. Germany secured first place in Group D and a berth in the knockout round with the win.

"He has sustained a thigh injury," German assistant Hansi Flick said "The doctors say time is running out but we hope he can play because he is an important player."

Schweinsteiger has been instrumental in midfield for Germany, especially with Michael Ballack's absence due to an ankle injury suffered in May.

Toni Kroos replaced Schweinsteiger for the final minutes of the Ghana match, and could start against England at Free State Stadium.

Midfielder Mesut Ozil, who scored Germany's goal against Ghana, and defender Jerome Boateng are also battling injuries and could miss the England match.