Last updated & checked: 10/08/2021
World Cup holders Germany begin their defence of the trophy on Sunday when they face Mexico in a potentially challenging first Group F game. The European side will obviously begin as favourites and it’s easy to see why when you look at the squad Joachim Low has to choose from. The unbelievable quality and depth was highlighted by the fact he could leave Leroy Sane at home.
However, Mexico will back themselves to cause an upset on the opening day, with their talented forward line that includes Chicharito, Carlos Vela and especially Hirving Lozano a real threat to the Germans. Yet, defensive issues have hindered them in the past and they will really have to be on top form to keep out Low’s ruthless side.
Here we will give you Germany vs Mexico betting tips, look at where the game will be won, the key players and a Germany vs Mexico prediction for the Group F opener.
Our Germany vs Mexico prediction: Germany 3-1 Mexico
Our Germany vs Mexico prediction tips is for the European side to come through with a win in what could be an entertaining clash.
Germany are once again very popular with the punters, with many fans seeing their side as pretty complete. In goal, the returning Manuel Neuer is the best in the world although he has missed an entire season through injury. Defensively, they are solid whilst Toni Kroos and Sami Khedira can still run the midfield. Further up the pitch, Thomas Muller comes alive on the big stage and Timo Werner is expected to have a huge impact. In truth, we could list all 23 players in the squad and explain what they bring to the table as they really are that good.
Such movement, pace and creativity should be too much for Mexico to handle, particularly as they have defensive issues with Diego Reyes the latest centre-back to pull out. Yet, the Mexicans won’t sit deep and surrender to Germany, instead they will put up a fight and will look to control possession themselves. If they can isolate the Germany backline they can cause them all sorts of trouble and Lozano could be the man to provide El Tri with a real threat down the flanks.
Our recommended tip –Germany to win and BTTS
As we’ve touched on, we expect this to be an entertaining game in Moscow and it could be one that has a lot of goals.
However, there is a clear gulf in class between the sides that can’t be overlooked. Mexico have some good players, whereas Germany have some world-class performers and if they hit their stride it’s going to be a tough afternoon for the Mexicans.
But, Germany haven’t looked as strong defensively in their warm up games and there’s enough to suggest Mexico can find the back of the net. Therefore, we are going to back Germany to get all three points with both sides scoring. Mexico are a side that like to control possession and play on the front foot and that should leave us with an open, attacking game with the extra quality shining through for the European side.
Previous matches
These two sides played each other last year in the Confederations Cup and the result may worry Mexico. Germany were 4-1 winners despite taking what was considered a reserve squad over for the tournament. In total, the two sides have met 11 times, dating back to 1968 and it’s Germany who have had the better of things, winning six times, drawing four and losing just once.
Yet, the usually consistent and quality Germans have struggled with friendly games over the past 12 months. Victory against Saudi Arabia on home soil last time out ended an incredible run of five games without a win and even that 2-1 success was very fortunate. This could alarm Germany backers although you do have to remember they are friendlies.
As for Mexico, they have been inconsistent, winning two, losing two and drawing one of their last five games, although defeats to Croatia and Denmark will be slightly concerning as they were the highest quality opposition.
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Players to watch – Timo Werner & Hirbing Lozano
The RB Leipzig forward is set to be the German’s number nine at the tournament and will be under a lot of pressure. Many fancy him to contend for the golden boot and it’s easy to see why. He has great pace, good movement and will get chances in this team but he hasn’t yet delivered on the biggest stage and how he copes could be key to Germany’s chances and a good start could set him up for a fine tournament.
Lozano has enjoyed a superb season with PSV and was integral to their Eredivisie title success. With electric pace, great dribbling ability and capable of shooting with both feet, he is a major threat. The World Cup could be his time to shine on the big stage and Germany ought to be wary of him on Sunday.
