World Cup Forensics: Germany vs Mexico

Defending Champions Germany take on Mexico on day 4 of the 2018 World Cup, hoping to put an average run-in of form behind them and start their campaign with a bang against a strong Mexican side.

Germany are trying to become the first team in 56 years to defend their World Cup crown, but the core of their side has aged well into their peak's and they may not be quite the force that won in 2014. Nevertheless, they are still an excellent outfit and won't be a pushover for anyone.

Mexico will remember Germany from being thrashed 4-1 by them in the German's successful Confederations Cup campaign last year, where Germany's impressive youth brigade barnstormed through the tournament.

Germany have won their opening game in each of the last seven World Cups, including scoring 20 goals in their last four openers and will back themselves to continue that record. 

Mexico have been knocked out in the round of 16 in each of the last six World Cups, and will be keen to get off to a good start in their group with crucial games against Costa Rica and Serbia to come.

On paper, Germany should be very confident. They have experience and class in defence, midfield creators and a dynamic and youthful forward line. They'll retain plenty of possession and offer the Mexicans few opportunities.

Mexico are a strong side however and won't make it easy. They will rely heavily on Giovani dos Santos, Andres Guardado, Hirving Lozano and Chicharito Hernandez to provide brilliance when those rare chances pop up.

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