FIFA World Cup 2018: Germany vs Mexico- Match Preview
What's the story
Defenders Germany face a tricky test against South American big shots Mexico in a crucial Group F encounter of the FIFA World Cup 2018.
Joachim Low's side go in as favorites, but they will be aware of Mexico, which can spring up a challenge.
Germany will need to gather momentum after a mixed run of form.
Here is the match preview.
Team update
Team selection and news
Germany have seen star player Mesut Ozil recover from an injury, but it is likely that the player will start from the bench.
Joachim Low has to decide whether to play Julian Draxler or Marco Reus on the left flank.
Mexico have suffered injury blows with defender Nestor Araujo being ruled out alongside Diego Reyes.
Germans
Germany keen to start well
Germany had a superb qualifying campaign, but since then they have been not been up to the mark in the friendly matches.
Despite not being in their groove, mid-fielder Toni Kroos believes that his team will prove they are match winners in vital matches.
Mexico have an experienced squad with at least 13 players having 50 caps or more.
Views
Important points from both camps
German star Kroos stated that Germany have an elite set of players in their ranks.
The Real Madrid star added Germany have the self-confidence as their players have won something important before coming here.
Mexico coach Juan Carlos Osorio has promised that his side will give everything as they have versatile players.
A crunch battle is on the cards.
Numbers game
Stat attack - Germany vs Mexico
Mexico have beaten Germany just once in their eleven head-to-head encounters.
This will be their fourth meeting in a World Cup.
The Germans have topped their groups at every World Cup since 1990.
Mexico have bowed out in the Round of 16 in each of their last six World Cups.
This would be Mexico's 16th World Cup participation.
Information
When and where to watch the tie?
The match is being played at Luzhniki Stadium and is scheduled for a 8:30 PM IST start. The Group F game will be telecast live on Sony Ten network in both Hindi and English commentary. One can stream it on Sony LIV app.