Prediction: Germany vs Japan

Prediction: Germany win

Best Odds: 4/9

Bookmaker: 888sport

After more than four years of waiting, we’ve finally arrived at the return of the FIFA World Cup. The greatest sporting spectacle on the planet will take place in Qatar and while there are so, so many reasons why that shouldn’t be happening, common sense hasn’t been able to prevail. Alas, we’re still expecting to see some great football, especially as Germany kickstart their campaign against Japan later this week.

Germany

Germany are known for being one of the biggest and best nations in the history of world football. Their recent history hasn’t reflected that but they are always considered to be a danger regardless of what’s been going on behind the scenes. If they make it through to the round of 16, with the squad they have at their disposal, literally anything can happen.

Team News

Sane should be back to full fitness in time for this game and outside of that, there are no other injury concerns for the Germans to worry about.

Japan

Japan are considered to be outsiders in this group which is hardly surprising given some of the heavyweights involved. Still, they know how to edge their way through to the knockouts, and we’re expecting them to cause a few surprises during their stay in Qatar. If they can get their stars linking up well, qualifying isn’t entirely outside the realm of possibility.

Team News

Asano is a fitness concern due to his injury stemming back to September, whereas for the rest of the squad, there are no big worries.

Factors to Consider

• Japan have never beaten Germany in an international game.
• Germany have won two, drawn three and lost one of their last six games.
• Japan have won two, drawn two and lost two of their last six games.
• Germany have scored 11 goals and conceded eight in their last six games.
• Japan have scored eight goals and conceded five in their last six games.

Conclusion

The Japanese always put in a good shift and in many ways, you could argue the real pressure rests on the shoulders of Germany in this encounter. They’re bound to be one of the favourites but they’ve struggled in their last few tournaments, with this serving as their possible ‘redemption’ moment. We expect them to edge through with a nervy 2-1 win, answering very few defensive questions in the process.

Prediction: Germany win

Best Odds: 4/9

Bookmaker: 888sport