It is a day 4 of the FIFA World Cup, 2018. We have already seen some interesting matches so far. If its still not excites you, then the Sunday's match-up between Germany and Mexico will definitely do. Defending champion Germany will play their first match of the tournament at the Iconic Luzhniki Stadium.
Many things Germany could go all the way once again in this World Cup. But history suggests that it won't be easy for them to defend their title. Since Pele’s Brazil in 1962 no other team has ever defended the prestigious trophy. On the other hand fate of Italy in 2010, and Spain in 2014, all these teams exited in the first rounds, shows it is not easy to come to a World Cup as a defending Champions.
Mario Goetze, a man who scored the winning goal for Germany in the final at Maracana, has failed to make the cut. He struggled with his form and fitness ever since. Germany has a fantastic infrastructure and they keep producing talented young players. Joachim Loew has incorporated new young players in the German squad. Players like Leon Goretzka, Julian Draxler, Timo Warner, Sabastian Rudi, Julian Brandt will boost the German side in Russia, with their speeds and skills.
Keep an eye on Dortmund star Marco Reus, he will definitely look to make amends this time. He is in a scintillating form leading up to this tournament. Reus will play alongside Thomas Mueller in the attacking line. Mueller has scored 10 goals in World Cup, which is the most amongst the currently active players.
Germany has a terrific supply line in mid-field comprises with Toni Kroos, Mesut Ozil, Sami Khedira, Gundogan. They can change the complexion of a match at any time.
In the friendly matches against Austria and Saudi Arabia, Germany struggled to put up a good show on the field. They lacked the rhythm in both those games, which is quite unusual for the German side.
Despite the indifferent performance in friendlies, Loew is confident that his team will outclass Mexico in the opening game of their campaign in Russia.
Mexico is no pushovers either. They are quite strong tactically. They can surprise any team on their day. But the amount of depth and experience Germany have in their squad it will be very difficult for Carlos Osorio's side to overcome German challenge. West Ham’s Javier Hernandez is the only trump card he has.
