A Germany side in a transitional period begin their latest World Cup tilt this afternoon, with Japan up first.
Handed a difficult group that also includes fellow heavyweights Spain, Hansi Flick’s team are looking to make a statement today. For the first time in the modern era, Germany have been knocked of two major tournaments before the quarter-final stage and haven’t looked overly convincing since.
While packed full of talent, there are major issues in midfield and forward options look somewhat light.
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Japan, meanwhile, have moved on from their 2018 heartbreak against Belgium. Only two players retain their places from that squad and manager Hajime Moriyasu has a number of exciting options to turn to, despite the fact the former Sanfrecce Hiroshima hasn’t always proved the most popular.
Date, kick-off time and venue
The World Cup group stage game is scheduled for a 1pm GMT kick-off time today, Wednesday November 23, 2022.
The Khalifa International Stadium in Al Rayyan will host.
Where to watch Germany vs Japan
TV channel: The game will be broadcast free-to-air on ITV1, with coverage starting at 12.10pm.
Live stream: The ITV Hub will offer a free live stream.
LIVE coverage: Follow all of the action with Standard Sport’s dedicated match blog.
Germany vs Japan team news
Germany XI: Neuer; Schlotterbeck, Sule, Rudiger, Raum; Kimmich, Gundogan; Gnabry, Muller, Musiala; Havertz.
Japan XI: Gonda; Sakai, Itakura, Yoshida, Ito, Nagatomo; Endo, Tanaka; Kubo, Kamada, Maeda.
Germany vs Japan prediction
While Germany are favourites, they simply haven’t convinced across 90 minutes in what feels like an age and Japan have an exciting frontline capable of causing problems.
A 2-2 draw.
Head to head (h2h) history and results
Germany wins: 1
Draws: 1
Japan wins: 0
Germany vs Japan latest odds
Germany to win: 4/9
Draw: 15/4
Japan to win: 6/1
