The reigning champions Germany kick off their 2018 campaign off against North America’s best side in Mexico.
Germany’s pre-tournament results have been poor, winning just once in six, a narrow 2-1 success over Saudi Arabia.
Despite their form, they have incredible strength in depth, leaving the likes of Leroy Sane and Emre Can out of their final squad.
Mexico have a solid record at the World Cup, last failing to qualify from a group stage back in 1990.
They were beaten by Denmark in their final pre World Cup friendly and are another side not in top form.
Match history
The pair met last year at the Confederations Cup, with Germany winning 4-1 at the Semi-Final stage.
Mexico have beaten Germany just once in 11 meetings, which came way back in 1985.
Last five meetings
Germany 4 Mexico 1 – 29/06/17
Germany 4 Mexico 3 – 29/06/05
Germany 2 Mexico 1 – 29/06/98
Mexico 1 Germany 1 – 22/12/93
Germany 1 Mexico 1 – 14/10/92
Over 2.5 goals – 4/5 with Sky Bet
Team news
Mesut Ozil has overcome a knee injury and should feature in his favoured no.10 role.
Manuel Neuer missed the whole of the 2017-18 campaign; however will captain his nation in Russia.
Hector Moreno and Andres Guardado remain doubts for Mexico, but both are expected to start.
Javier Hernandez is favourite to lead the line.
Expected starting XI’s
Germany (4-2-3-1): Neuer; Kimmich, Boateng, Hummels, Hector; Khedira, Kroos; Muller, Ozil, Draxler; Werner
Mexico (4-2-3-1): Ochoa; Salcedo, Moreno, Ayala, Gallardo; Guardado, Herrera; Corona, Vela, Lozano; Hernandez
Predictions
Result: Germany (8/15 with Sky Bet)
Correct Score: 2-1 (8/1 with Bet 365)
Anytime Goalscorer: Timo Werner (11/10 with Sky Bet)
