Germany is preparing to play their first World Cup knockout fixture in 12 years, taking on Paraguay in the Round of 32 on Monday at Boston Stadium.
The Germans progressed as winners of Group E, although their form dipped just before the knockout phase. Julian Nagelsmann’s side began their campaign in emphatic style with a crushing 7-1 win over Curaçao, followed by a solid 2-1 victory against the Ivory Coast.
Their final group game raised concerns, as they were unexpectedly beaten 2-1 by Ecuador after showing clear defensive weaknesses. Despite possessing one of the most dangerous attacking units in the tournament, Germany will need more consistency from their key players to regain control and balance.
Centre-back Nico Schlotterbeck has been ruled out of the remainder of the tournament due to a serious ankle injury, meaning Nagelsmann will depend on the experienced pairing of Antonio Rüdiger and Jonathan Tah.
There is also uncertainty surrounding left-back Nathaniel Brown, who missed the Ecuador game with an adductor injury and remains doubtful.
The Germans progressed as winners of Group E, although their form dipped just before the knockout phase. Julian Nagelsmann’s side began their campaign in emphatic style with a crushing 7-1 win over Curaçao, followed by a solid 2-1 victory against the Ivory Coast.
Their final group game raised concerns, as they were unexpectedly beaten 2-1 by Ecuador after showing clear defensive weaknesses. Despite possessing one of the most dangerous attacking units in the tournament, Germany will need more consistency from their key players to regain control and balance.
Centre-back Nico Schlotterbeck has been ruled out of the remainder of the tournament due to a serious ankle injury, meaning Nagelsmann will depend on the experienced pairing of Antonio Rüdiger and Jonathan Tah.
There is also uncertainty surrounding left-back Nathaniel Brown, who missed the Ecuador game with an adductor injury and remains doubtful.
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