Germany come into this World Cup in unbelievable form throughout qualifying. Winning 9 out of their 10 games, topping the group with 27 points. They didn’t just scrape through those games either, averaging 3.6 goals per game conceding only 4 in the process. Scoring 15 goals in their 5 away games, conceding only once on the road to collecting a maximum 15 points -meaning the new Qatar surroundings shouldn’t faze Hansi Flick’s side.
It’s a redemption opportunity for the Germans in their 17th successive World Cup after failing to reach the quarter finals at both Russia 2018 (WC) and Euro 2020.
As for Japan, a fairly straightforward qualification campaign saw them finish 2nd with 22 points after 10 games, scoring 12 and conceding only 4 – albeit against much less opposition. It’s a tough ask for Japan to have any success in Group E with Germany and Spain heavy favourites to be the two that progress in the tournament. With a shaky run of results in the lead up to Qatar, I feel this could be an ‘easy day at the office’ for Germany who showcase a whole heap of talent throughout the pitch. Gnabry, Werner and Gundogan all finished qualifying with 5 goals, while Havertz, Muller and Sane all finding the net 3+ times throughout the qualifiers, showing the variety of goal scorers Germany have at their disposal.
I’m going for a convincing Germany win to kick off their World Cup campaign.
Score Prediction: 4-0
Bet Prediction: Germany -1 Goal Handicap – 23/20
