Needing just a point to reach the last 16 after beating Portugal, Germany’s final game in the group of death was against Hungary. Despite being without arguably their best player – Dominik Szoboszlai of RB Leipzig – Hungary had performed admirably against France and Portugal. They caused Germany even greater problems, with Mainz striker Adam Szalai opening the scoring after just 11 minutes. Chelsea’s Kai Havertz continued his fine form by nodding in the equaliser after the hour mark, but Andras Schafer reclaimed Hungary’s lead just 2 minutes later. At this point, Hungary were due to qualify, but substitute Leon Goretzka had other ideas. The Bayern midfielder powered a shot into the bottom corner with just over five minutes left, rescuing a point for his country and setting up a last-16 tie with England.
England v Germany – Tuesday 29th June, 5pm KO, BBC.
Wembley, where England and Germany will play on Tuesday. Photo: "Wembley Stadium" by braveheartsports is licensed under CC BY 2.0.
Gareth Southgate certainly has a selection headache ahead of this game. Germany will likely continue with their 3-4-3 set-up, in which wingbacks Joshua Kimmich and Robin Gosens have really stood out. Southgate could choose to match this formation, but then would be forced to leave out one of his dangerous attackers. The aforementioned Goretzka will also be in the reckoning for a starting spot, although Joachim Löw would find it difficult to leave out either Toni Kroos or Ilkay Gundogun. Expect a very tight contest, but from an English perspective, let’s hope it doesn’t go to penalties…
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