Last updated & checked: 10/08/2021
Germany are in a very worrying position, with the World Cup holders realistically needing a win against Sweden to keep their tournament alive. That’s because they were beaten by Mexico in the opening game, a result that the Mexicans totally deserved. Joachim Low’s men were poor throughout and were carved open at will on the break and really a one-goal defeat flattered Germany.
And, they’ll face a very tough test against the Swedes who can play for a draw knowing that will leave them in a great position following a win against South Korea in their opening game. It was an Andreas Granqvist penalty that separated the sides but the European side were guilty of missing several easy chances that could’ve made the result more comfortable.
Here we will give you Germany vs Sweden betting tips, look at where the game will be won, the key players and a Germany vs Sweden prediction for the Group F encounter.
Our Germany vs Sweden Prediction: Germany 2-0 Sweden
Our Germany vs Sweden prediction tips is for the holders to secure a much-needed win to keep alive their chances of retaining the trophy.
Germany were awful against Mexico and changes will have to be made as Low demands a reaction. However, whoever comes in will bring quality and the high-pressure environment should see the Germans thrive. They have all played in such situations over the years and know what’s needed. Ultimately, they have a better side and need to step up which should see them securing a win.
Yet, it won’t be easy against a Swedish side that are very capable defensively. They finished ahead of Holland in World Cup qualifying and then saw off Italy to reach Russia, grabbing a 0-0 in the San Siro and that will give them the confidence that they can stop Germany. They will sit back, block spaces and it suits their style.
Our recommended tip – Germany to win to nil
Despite that, we think the Germans have the creativity and imagination to open up the resilient Swedish defence and once they do the dynamics of the game will change.
Sweden will be required to come out but it doesn’t suit them. Ola Toivonen and Marcus Berg don’t have the pace to trouble Germany on the break like Mexico did and that could mean the Swedes are pinned back in their own half. That lack of counter attacking threat also means we can’t see the Swedes scoring, so backing the Germans to win to nil seems a safe bet for punters.
Previous matches
The clash in Sochi will be the 38th meeting between the sides and Germany have slightly had the better of it, winning 15 games to Sweden’s 13. Their last World Cup meeting was back in 2006 with hosts Germany winning 2-0.
As for their recent games, Germany stuttered in warm up games with many expecting them to up it against Mexico but it didn’t happen. They were poor in possession, lacked energy and were pulled apart by a more energetic side. It will have really concerned Low but the depth is there and quality can come off the benh if needed.
Whereas, Sweden started perfectly with a win over South Korea that showed exactly what they are about. They were physically imposing, well organised and created chances from set-plays throughout. They won’t get the same joy in the final third in Sochi but they are capable of sitting back, soaking up pressure and frustrating the Germans.
Top 3 World Cup Bookies
Players to watch – Victor Lindelof & Marco Reus
The Manchester United centre back is sure to be key if Sweden are going to get anything from this match with his nation sure to come under serious pressure. He missed the opener through illness but will return and is crucial to the defence with his positional play and strength.
The Borussia Dortmund attacker will come into this game following the poor display from his teammates last time out. He needs to play well and has the pace, technique and skill to unlock a Swedish defence that will be well organised and resilient. After missing previous major tournaments through injury, Reus will be desperate to make his mark on the big stage.
