Must win for Germany

Germany’s phenomenal World Cup consistency means the reigning world champion has not been eliminated in the tournament’s group stage for the last 80 years - but that could all change on Saturday.

In every World Cup since 1938, Germany has made it past the group stage. It did not compete at the 1950 tournament as it was banned from entering following the World War Two. Not even five-time champion Brazil can boast of such a record, with the South Americans having failed to get out of their group in 1966.

But when coach Joachim Low’s men take to the pitch against Sweden for its second Group F match in Sochi’s Fisht Stadium, it will be painfully aware that defeat by the Scandinavians could mean the end of one of the longest World Cup records. 

A shock 1-0 opening loss to Mexico means it probably needs at least four points from its remaining group matches against Sweden and South Korea if it is to progress.

Tepid and lacklustre against Mexico, the Germans showed none of the strengths that carried them to the 2014 title and to victory in each of their 10 World Cup qualifiers. Instead, they were easy prey for their opponents who outsmarted them with a series of quick breaks. Now they have their backs to the wall and German fans are bracing for what could be their biggest shock in decades. 

“We have two important tasks to complete and we have to win both games,” Germany’s Thomas Mueller said. “We want nothing else but success.”

“It does not matter who will play, every player has to do what they are asked to in their positions and if they stick to that everyone can set up or score goals.” For the Swedes, however, it is a golden opportunity to advance, knowing their opponents are under extreme pressure.

“We will do everything we can, and be as smart as we can with the ball and without it,” said Sweden winger Emil Forsberg, whose team won its opener 1-0 against South Korea. A draw could also be enough for Sweden but for the Germans only three points will do. 

“The longer the match goes, the more desperate they will get if they haven’t scored,” Forsberg said.