Entering Euro 2020, Germany was tipped off by many to fight and although they met the tournament favorites in their Group F opener, there was very little to suggest that their critics were wrong in their assessment of Joachim Low’s side.
France took all three points without ever coming out of second gear and that is proof of how toothless the 2014 World Cup winners were in attack. Portugal are their next opponent and Fernando Santos’ side has a three-point lead over Germany, but will their situation make Low make a difference this weekend?
Here is the line-up that Germany should choose to meet the competition holders.
Hummels had a night to forget against France / Matthias Hangst / Getty Images
Manuel Neuer (GK) – Had no chance to stop Mats Hummel’s own goal against France and is by far Germany’s best goalkeeper. One of the first names on the team magazine and has been for several years.
Matthias Ginter (CB) – Was probably the best of Joachim Low’s defenders on Tuesday night. The Borussia Monchengladbach star’s pass interval is useful when you want to develop the ball quickly.
Mats Hummels (CB) – Can not possibly play worse than he did in the opener. At least he will not face Kylian Mbappe this time – only Cristiano Ronaldo.
Antonio Rudiger (CB) – Enjoy a really good end to the club season and even though he was not perfect against France, he showed plenty of pieces.
Kimmich can play in defense and midfield / Matthias Hangst / Getty Images
Joshua Kimmich (RWB) – Preferably you want the Bayern Munich star to pull in the middle, but he has been asked to do a job on the right back that feels like a waste. However, his quality is undeniable and he must be on the side in one way or another.
Toni Kroos (CM) – Heartbeat in the team, if Kroos can find his suitable rhythm, Germany can still have a good tournament. Showed that he will not eliminate the physical battle neither against the French.
Ilkay Gundogan (CM) – Always for a fight and can do damage in the attacking third, Gundogan is the best partner for Kroos with Kimmich covering the flank.
Robin Gosens (LWB) – One of Germany’s better players in the opener and he will make sure to attach Nelson Semedo back while he causes him his own problems.
Werner was a replacement against France but could be a good alternative against Portugal / Alexander Hassenstein / Getty Images
Kai Havertz (RW) – Very inefficient under the opener but be prepared to get your head down and work hard from the ball.
Thomas Muller (ST) – Has scored 39 goals for his country, works extremely hard, has a lot of experience and can always be a difference manufacturer.
Timo Werner (LW) – Was left out from start XI against France and even though he has not always been clinical in front of goal in recent times, his pace and ability to stretch defense makes him a good alternative.
