Germany, who surprisingly finished last in their group against Russia, will be looking to make up for their 2018 World Cup performance when they travel to Qatar for this year’s tournament.
At Euro 2020, England had another disappointing performance in the last 16, where they were too strong. Hansi Flick is looking to make an impact as a key player in his first major tournament, replacing former Bayern coach Joachim Low.
However, the four-time World Cup winners were unable to easily draw in Group E against 2010 champions Spain, Japan, Asian powerhouse and CONCACAF’s Costa Rica.
Strongest XI For Germany:
The 4-2-3-1 system is a familiar formation managed by Flick.
This could be Neuer’s final goalscoring campaign at the World Cup as Müller is behind Havertz in attack and Gnabry and Sané attack from the flanks. Kimmich and Gundoan should provide defensive stability to Sule and Rudiger at centre-back.
Klostermann is on the right and Hoffenheim’s Raum is on the other side.
Goalkeeper:
Manuel Neuer
defenders:
- Klostermann
- Sule
- Rudiger
- Raum
Midfielders:
- Kimmich
- Gundogan
- Gnabry
Forwards:
- Muller
- Sane
- Havertz
Timo Werner was hit particularly hard after his move to RB Leipzig when he missed the tournament with an ankle problem.
Dortmund’s Marco Reus is also out with an ankle injury.