Spain v Germany Tips November 27

SBK tipster Tom Collins previews the hotly anticipated group game between powerhouses Spain and Germany, which many believed would decide who topped the table before Japan’s surprise success.

Gnarly German Display

Germany entered Wednesday’s opening World Cup fixture against Japan with the expectation that they would progress deep into the competition. After all, they are one of the most successful national teams in the world having lifted the World Cup trophy on four occasions. They instantly came crashing down to Earth.

After taking a first-half lead courtesy of Ilkay Gundogan’s penalty, the Germans spluttered and faltered in the second 45 minutes. Late goals from Ritsu Doan and Takuma Asano helped Japan complete a remarkable turnaround and produce one of the biggest shocks in the tournament’s history.

German manager Hansi Flick came under increasing pressure heading into the tournament, despite his side winning nine of their 10 World Cup qualifying games, and his job will be up for grabs if his team fails to make it into the knockout rounds.

Seven For Scintillating Spain

Costa Rica aren’t in the same league as Spain. If that wasn’t clear before the match on Wednesday, it sure is now given the 7-0 demolition job imposed by Luis Enrique’s men.

As bad as their opposition played, Spain were immense. Gavi, who is still just 18 years old, dominated the midfield and helped himself to a goal. Dani Olmo and Marco Asensio kept the ball alive in the channels and tested the Costa Rican back-line, while Rodri, Sergio Busquets et al helped pass the ball from side-to-side with consummate ease.

The biggest concern for Spain is their lack of an out-and-out number nine - a forward that will grab you two goals from nothing, someone that can spark into life when you need them the most. Alvaro Morata has helped himself to numerous goals in his career, but he is not an elite striker, while Ferran Torres is best as a false nine. Maybe that will come back to haunt Spain later in the competition.

So, What Is The Verdict?

Germany lacked a cutting edge against Japan. Playing Chelsea forward Kai Havertz, who is far from prolific, doesn’t seem to work for this side and, although they controlled the ball for a large portion of the match, they are clearly vulnerable at the back, especially to counter attacks.

Expect Hansi Flick to make a couple of personal changes against Spain, who will almost certainly dominate possession in this encounter. The Germans will be forced to sit deep and soak up pressure, before unleashing their star performers on quick breaks.

Spain were fantastic in their victory over Costa Rica and should be considered strong favourites to win back-to-back games. However, I’ve learned to never underestimate Germany and the best bet looks to be under 2.5 goals at 2.2. Given the way both of these sides formulate their attacks, you shouldn’t expect too many clearcut chances.