England vs Germany Build-up
England face a tough Germany side in the round-of-16, in what should be their biggest test of the campaign so far. This fixture comes with plenty of history. From the 1966 World Cup final to Frank Lampard’s infamous ‘ghost goal’, this encounter will add another chapter to this rivalry story. Both teams will fancy their chances, yet neither have been fully convincing so far in the campaign. England are yet to concede so far, but have scraped wins against Croatia and Czech Republic, whilst drawing to Scotland. Germany put in a sublime performance against Portugal, yet were disappointing in their other games against France and Hungary. But a win for either teams give a favourable route (at least on paper) to the final, with either Sweden or Ukraine awaiting them in the quarter finals and, if successful, Denmark or Czech Republic in the semis.
England Team News
The big decision for Southgate will be regarding the inclusion of Chilwell and Mount in the England squad. The pair are self-isolating for 10 days, after close contact with Billy Gilmour, who tested positive for Covid. The 10 days comes to a close on Monday night, meaning that they are both allowed to play in Tuesday’s game. However, their self-isolation means that they had to train separately from the England squad. Chilwell is yet to feature for England this tournament but Mount has been a pivotal part of Southgate’s team. His creativity and ability to press off the ball is key for England and Southgate will have to decide whether his inclusion is worth the risk of him not being match-ready.
Foden was dropped in their last match to avoid picking up a suspension and is likely to be back in the squad. However, Saka’s excellent performance in their victory against Czech Republic could see Foden sit out again. Maguire lasted the 90 minutes and Henderson got 45 minutes under his belt in their last match. Both could start in this important tie and their experience in big games could be called upon.
Predicted Line-up: Pickford, James, Stones, Maguire, Shaw, Henderson, Philips, Mount, Sterling, Kane, Saka (4-3-3)
Germany Team News
Germany have had several injury concerns throughout this tournament, involving players such as Hummels and Muller. However, both of them should be fit for the encounter with England. Rudiger and Gundogan both missed training on the weekend but they should be fit enough to travel to London for the match. Klostermann is the main injury concern and will be out of action due to a muscle injury.
Predicted Line-up: Neuer, Ginter, Hummels, Rudiger, Kimmich, Goretzka, Kroos, Gosens, Gnabry, Havertz, Muller (3-4-3)
Predicted Score
Both teams will fancy their chances and this match could certainly go either way. Germany’s front three of Gnabry, Havertz and Muller should pose a bigger threat to England’s defence than they’ve experienced thus far. Their main dangermen are the wingbacks, Gosens and Kimmich, who will stretch England’s defence. England’s attack haven’t performed quite up to the standards expected and they could struggle against the typically solid German defenders. England have the talent capable of beating this German side, but I don’t believe they’re at their full potential. Therefore, I am predicting a 2-0 win to Germany.
