Match Previews

Suffered a stunning defeat in group opener against Mexico. Benedickt Höwedes and Mario Götze two regulars among those not in the squad. Jonas Hector missed out with the flu last time out, but training again. Mats Hummels a doubt. Must win this match to have a realistic chance of progression.

Germany were one of a number of favourites in the competition to struggle in their opening match. Joachim Löw's side were highly disappointing in their defeat against Mexico.

Germany's defence looked especially exposed and they gave up a lot of chances so were fortunate to ultimately concede a single goal.

A small handful of players failed to make the cut for the squad including regulars Mario Götze and Benedickt Höwedes.

Starting left back Jonas Hector was a late withdrawal against Mexico due to having a cold. The Köln player is back in training though and will likely start. His replacement Marvin Plattenhardt did perfectly well, but was also not especially impressive.

Centre back Mats Hummel's suffered a back strain in training and is a doubt to feature in this match, though Löw expects him to be available. Antonio Rüdiger trained with the rest of the starting side in the final training session so it seems he would be the player to replace him.

Löw and team captain Manuel Neuer have both openly stated that there will not be wholesale changes to personnel nor to the team's system for this match despite the terrible performance in the first match. Aside from Hector coming back into the team, the only other possible change is Marco Reus coming onto the wing as he has been impressive in recent matches.

Germany have faced Sweden four times at previous World Cups, winning 3 and losing once. Germany are unbeaten in their last 8 against Sweden over all competitions, a run stretching back to 1988.