Germany set to kick-off title defence with a win over Mexico

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World champions Germany kick-off the defence of their title when they face Mexico on Sunday in Group F of the World Cup.

Germany lifted the trophy four years ago in Brazil, beating Argentina 1-0 in extra-time through a Mario Gotze goal. The victory means that Die Mannschaft have won the competition four times, while also finishing runners-up four times.

Joachim Loew’s side proved their title credentials by having a 100 per cent record in qualifying, as the world champions steamrollered their opponents. No team scored more goals in European qualifying than the Germans.

The champion’s preparations for Russia 2018 have not been great. Loew’s side has struggled to win in their recent warm-up friendlies, winning just one of their last six outings. That one victory came in a 2-1 win over Saudi Arabia in their last friendly match.

Despite their friendly struggles, Germany are masters of finding their best form when it really matters. Die Mannschaft have the quality and the experience to retain their title in Russia.

Mexico have a good recent record at the World Cup, making it out of the group stages at the last six finals. However, El Tri have only ever made it past the group stages on two occasions as hosts in 1970 and 1986.

They enjoyed a strong qualifying campaign and some see El Tri as the second favourites to make it out of a group that also includes Sweden and South Korea.

Mexico have produced mixed results in their warm-up games. They have won just one of their last four games, though. Their recent games have been low scoring with under 2.5 goals scored in six of their last seven outings.

El Tri are a dangerous team and could cause the world champions some problems. However, Forebet predicts that Germany will record a victory in a high scoring encounter.