The GBE Expert Hub World Cup Preview: UEFA special
Our experts give their knowledge on the countries they cover within UEFA
As my piece on the World Cup and GBE eligibility stated, being at a World Cup doesn’t necessarily move the needle massively from a GBE perspective, but that doesn’t mean that we are going to be ignoring “The Greatest Show On Earth” completely!
Indeed, I have a stable of writers and scouts here whom I trust, and who have excellent knowledge of the leagues that they cover, so it only makes sense to ask some of them to write a little preview of their countries and their chances in North America this month.
UEFA is the most successful confederation in terms of World Cup victories, and also dominates in terms of average FIFA ranking.
The GBE rules for international players enable regular appearance makers for top 50 ranked nations to get a GBE auto pass. This is not available to non top 50 nations.
It is also important to remember that the top 50 is NOT the current FIFA top 50. It is the average over the period of time relevant to the player, for U21s it is 12 months, senior players it is 24 months.
Here is the current FA 24 month list for reference, with UEFA nations highlighted yellow.
Almost all UEFA qualifiers for this World Cup are top 50 ranked, so most players are likely to qualify for GBE, many for international autopasses, but some may not, so it is always recommended to have a working knowledge of the GBE system before falling in love with a player for your UK club.
The one UEFA nation outside the top 50 is Bosnia-Herzegovina. Now, many of their players will still qualify for GBE via their league status, but many may not. If a player requires ESC, then bear in mind the latest changes which dictate that an ESC slot can now only be used on under 23 players.
Croatia
The feeling in the local media/fanbase
Croatian supporters are approaching this World Cup with a mix of pride, nostalgia, and cautious optimism. After reaching the final in 2018 and finishing third in 2022, expectations remain high despite the squad being in transition. Most fans believe Croatia can still compete with anyone, but there is awareness that this could be the final World Cup for several icons, especially Luka Modrić. Reaching at least the quarter-finals is generally viewed as the benchmark for a successful tournament.
Player who could make or break the campaign
Luka Modrić
Even at 40, Modrić remains Croatia’s heartbeat. His ability to control tempo, manage pressure, and deliver in decisive moments is still unmatched within the squad. If he stays fit and influential, Croatia can challenge elite nations. If age finally catches up with him, Croatia may struggle to replace his leadership and creativity.
Future star
Luka Vušković
The teenage centre-back is regarded as one of Croatia’s brightest prospects and has already earned a place in the World Cup squad despite his age. Long-term, he is viewed as a potential cornerstone of the national team alongside Joško Gvardiol.
Alternative pick:
Martin Baturina – many Croatian observers believe he could become the creative leader of the post-Modrić era.
Likely Starting XI (4-3-3)
GK – Dominik Livaković
RB – Josip Stanišić
CB – Luka Vušković
CB – Joško Gvardiol
LB – Marin Pongračić
CDM – Mateo Kovačić
CM – Luka Modrić
CAM – Martin Baturina
RW – Ivan Perišić
ST – Ante Budimir
LW – Andrej Kramarić
This XI balances experience with the emerging generation and is close to the strongest lineup Zlatko Dalić has used during qualification and pre-tournament preparations.
My prediction for the tournament
Group Stage: 2nd place behind England because of the goal difference
England 1–1 Croatia: Croatia proved once again that they can compete with the world’s elite by claiming a valuable point.
Croatia 2–0 Panama: The Vatreni delivered a mature display to collect their first victory of the tournament.
Croatia 2–1 Ghana: Experience and composure helped Croatia overcome a dangerous Ghanaian side and seal qualification for the knockout rounds.
Croatia’s tournament know-how should again carry them beyond expectations. They rarely beat themselves, possess elite midfield quality, and remain one of international football’s toughest knockout opponents. However, compared to 2018 and 2022, the squad lacks the same overall depth and physical peak. A quarter-final appearance feels realistic, while another semi-final run would require several players to again exceed expectations .
Portugal 🇵🇹
What’s the feeling in the local media/fanbase?
The vibes are very positive for Portugal heading into this World Cup. Martinez’ side will play two friendlies in Portugal (against Chile and Nigeria) before flying out to the US. The squad and starting XI looks very strong on paper; Diogo Costa had a fantastic season for Porto, four of the squad have just won the Champions League for a second consecutive time, and Fernandes is in fantastic form having just broken the Premier League assist record.
The biggest question marks are around Ronaldo - how much will he play? Are they a better team without him? Will the attention on him detract from the focus on the team?
Who is the player who could make or break the campaign?
Two players are the key for me - Vitinha and Joao Neves. Off the back of a Champions League win, the PSG central midfield will be paramount to Portugal controlling games, especially in the latter stages.
Who is the future star?
Nuno Mendes is only 23, yet has already won a wonderful selection of titles. A talented left back who gets forward at pace, he could be a future star if he can help to guide Portugal to the biggest trophy of all.
What’s the likely starting XI?
Costa
Cancelo - Dias - Inacio - Mendes
Vitinha - Joao Neves
Silva - Fernandes - Neto
Ronaldo
The big debate is how much game time Ronaldo will get. I’m assuming he’ll start most matches, but Ramos may get a lot of minutes off the bench. Rafael Leao is another wide option who could start instead of Silva or Neto.
Prediction?
Portugal 2-1 DR Congo
Portugal 3-0 Uzbekistan
Portugal 1-0 Colombia
I’m predicting a shaky start against DR Congo, followed by a comfortable win over the Uzbeks. They should top the group with 9 points, with Colombia providing the toughest test in the final group game.
I think Martinez’ side could get all the way to the final, but European champs Spain will be too strong.
Netherlands
What’s the feeling in the local media/fanbase?
The vibes I was picking up were semi-positive, that was until the 1-0 warm up game defeat to Algeria in Rotterdam on Wednesday. Now there’s familiar questions being asked - Does the favoured midfield work? Is there enough goals in the team? And maybe most pertinent, Is the squad carrying too many out of form players?
Who is the player who could make or break the campaign?
There’s a cloud in terms of poor form or fitness hanging over a fair number of likely starters. Van Dijk, Van de Ven, Gravenberch & Gakpo are all entering the tournament off the back of a below par season. Timber, Reijnders & Depay have had a low load in terms of game time recently due to injury or non-selection.
The one player who comes into the competition in a rich vein of form is Donyell Malen who has scored 14 goals in 18 Serie A appearances since a January move from Aston Villa. Whether he starts from the right or centrally he’ll be needed to chip in regularly for the Dutch to go deep.
Who is the future star?
The cynical answer here is that the future star hasn’t been selected for the squad. You could insert Kees Smit, Luciano Valente or Givairo Reed into that sentence.
From those in the squad the future star is Jorrel Hato for whom there’s a strong argument to say should be starting ahead of either Van Dijk or Van de Ven, however that feels unlikely.
What’s the likely starting XI?
Verbruggen - Dumfries, Timber (Van Hecke if not fit), Van Dijk, Van de Ven - De Jong, Gravenberch - Malen, Reijnders, Gakpo - Depay (There is a suggestion that the secondary option is Koopmeiners from the right with Malen playing centrally.
Prediction?
Netherlands 0-0 Japan
Netherlands 2-1 Sweden
Netherlands 2-0 Tunisia
Top the group with 7 points.
Lose to either Morocco or Brazil in the Ro32.
Norway
Martin Haddow
Haaland’s moment arrives as a 28 year wait ends and a sleeping giant (viking giant) awakens.
For nearly three decades, Norway have been the great underachievers of European football.
They have produced elite talent, flirted with qualification campaigns and looked enviously on as major tournaments have played on without them . That wait is finally, finally over.
Ståle Solbakken’s side arrive on North American shores carrying the weight of a 28-year absence,and, the excitement generated by,arguably, the finest generation of Norwegian footballers ever assembled. Norwegians assemble!
They really are pretty good.
THE FEELING?
A particular narrative playing out is the fact that this is Erling Haaland’s World Cup debut. Yes, his very first.
The Molde graduate now Manchester City hitman blasted Norway through qualifying with a fantastic 16 goals in eight matches. The Italians are still having nightmares….
Erling now steps onto football’s biggest stage with expectations bordering on, not obsession, the Norwegians are calmer than that, but they are close.
Yet, Norway are far more than a one-man team…
Captain Martin Ødegaard, now a Premier league winner with Arsenal, provides the creativity, control, composure and steely intelligence between the lines. A fantastic leader, who with his technical intelligence, will unlock a few doors for the Norwegians I am sure.
PLAYERS TO NOTE.
The Norwegians hold established performers from the Premier League, Bundesliga (Nusa) and La Liga (Sorloth). There are also players from the domestic front who are more than capable of impressing on the international stage. (Jens Petter Hauge, Bodø Glimt. Henrik Falchener, Viking.
Patrick Berg (Bodø Glimt) is also a player who is vital to the Norwegian machine, technically comfortable, hardworking and displays excellent stamina throughout.
THE GROUP.
Let it be said though, their group is difficult.
The small matter of France (the final group game) who remain one of the tournament favourites.
Senegal possess elite athleticism,power, pace but its not just all running, there is tactical nous to Pape Thiaw’s team and they have Mane, plus tournament experience.
Iraq are also capable of causing problems but maybe not to many this tournament. Norwegians will recognise Sarpsborg’s Aimar Sher and former Manchester United youngster, Zidane Iqbal will be hoping to turn heads.
PROGRESSION?
Progression is achievable, but Norway will likely need to take points from either France or Senegal to reach the knockout rounds.
The sense around this squad is that merely qualifying is no longer enough. There is a growing belief that Norway can become one of the tournament’s surprise packages. Whether that confidence is justified will depend on how quickly they adapt to the pressure of a World Cup environment many of these players have never experienced.
FEELING IN THE MEDIA/FANBASE?
It seems to be a mixture of excitement, relief, quiet confidence and cautious optimism.
You could say Norway’s return to the World Cup has been treated almost as a national sporting reset. Supporters have waited a generation to see Haaland and Ødegaard on this stage and there is a widespread feeling that this squad has finally broken the cycle of wasted potential.
Most observers expect Norway to reach the Round of 32, while a run to the last 16 would be viewed as a significant success. Anything beyond that would enter historic territory. Expect seismic activity around the fjords.
ONE TO WATCH:
Antonio Nusa
Fans of the Bundesliga, you will know exactly who this player is and the trouble the Leipzig winger can cause defenders.
While Haaland and Ødegaard dominate the headlines, Antonio Nusa could leave this tournament with his reputation further enhanced.
Still only 21, the explosive winger combines acceleration, direct dribbling, fearlessness in 1v1s, unpredictability will he cut in or go outside? An excellent first touch and will offer something different to Norway’s more structured attacking play.
Nusa has the potential and the ability to produce a defining World Cup moment.
Several scouts already regard him as one of Europe’s most exciting young wide forwards. I cant disagree with that.
LIKELY STARTING 11.
Formation: 4-3-3/4–4–2.
GK: Ørjan Nyland
RB: Julian Ryerson
CB: Kristoffer Ajer
CB: Torbjørn Heggem
LB: David Møller Wolfe
CM: Sander Berge
CM: Martin Ødegaard (C)
CM: Kristian Thorstvedt
RW: Alexander Sørloth
CF: Erling Haaland
LW: Antonio Nusa
PREDICTIONS:
Norway 🇳🇴 3- Iraq 🇮🇶 1
Norway 🇳🇴 2- Senegal 🇸🇳 2
Norway 🇳🇴 2- France 🇫🇷 3
Sweden
Martin Haddow
Graham Potter’s magic has given the Blue and Yellow permission to dream again you could say.
No team arriving at this summers World Cup has taken a stranger route to the finals than Sweden. It was strange, at one stage, their campaign appeared dead. They finished bottom of their qualifying group with one point and -5 goal difference.
A group containing Switzerland, Kosovo and Slovenia. This collapse cost Dane Jon Dahl Tomasson his job and left the country staring at another summer on the outside looking in.
Then came the escape route. A strong UEFA Nations League campaign handed Sweden a playoff lifeline and, under new manager Graham Potter, they seized it, defeating the Ukrainians before overcoming Poland in a dramatic playoff final.
As a result, Sweden return to the World Cup through the back door for the first time since 2018 with a squad that you could argue may be stronger than the one that reached the quarter-finals eight years ago.
Potter has inherited an enviable collection of attacking talent. Will they click though?
PLAYERS OF NOTE:
Viktor Gyökeres arrives after another prolific club season, now a Premier league winner. Physical, direct and a handful when pinning centre halves, the former Brommapojkarna youngster is the focal point and he just looks fitter and sharper than Isak.
Alexander Isak is among Europe’s elite forwards although last season was injury riddled at Liverpool, his recent goal in the 3–1 loss to Norway shows the real finishing quality he has. A superb goal.
There is also Anthony Elanga who provides pace, energy and penetration from wider areas.
Behind them, the emergence of Lucas Bergvall ( Tottenham) has added creativity and energy to a midfield that had looked stale and ponderous during qualification.
The challenge now is converting potential into results.
THE GROUP.
Group F offers little margin for error, its a difficult one. The Netherlands, Japan and Tunisia are waiting and are all capable of reaching the knockout rounds.
Sweden possess enough firepower to beat anyone on their day, but they are also vulnerable enough to be heading home after three matches.
PREDICTIONS.
Sweden 🇸🇪 2- Tunisia 🇹🇳 1
Sweden 🇸🇪 1- Netherlands 🇳🇱 3
Sweden 🇸🇪 3 - Japan 🇯🇵 3
Potter’s influence has already changed the mood. The former Brighton, Chelsea and West Ham manager has simplified the tactical approach, restored individual and collective confidence and convinced players to focus on individual matches rather than grander ambitions.
Whether that is enough to engineer another unlikely run remains to be seen, but the Swedes arrive as one of the tournament’s most intriguing wildcards.
MEDIA/FANBASE.
The feeling in the media and amongst the fans is cautious optimism mixed with disbelief.
Many supporters still cannot quite believe Sweden are at the tournament after such a disastrous qualifying campaign. Yet there is also genuine excitement about the attacking options available to Potter. The Isak-Gyökeres partnership has generated enormous interest and there is a growing feeling that Sweden could surprise more fancied opponents if they survive the group stage. Most observers view reaching the Round of 32 as a realistic target, while a place in the last 16 would be considered an excellent achievement. Last 8? Behave yourself.
ONE TO WATCH.
Lucas Bergvall
Still only 20, Bergvall already looks capable of becoming the face of Swedish football’s next generation.
The Djurgårdens graduate is
technically gifted, tactically intelligent and composed in possession, he has rapidly become one of the most highly regarded young midfielders in Europe.
This tournament could be the moment he jumps from promising prospect to international star. Several within Swedish football already view him as the natural successor to the country’s great midfield leaders. We will see.
LIKELY STARTING 11.
Formation: 4-2-3-1/3-4-1-2
GK: Kristoffer Nordfeldt
CB: Daniel Svensson
CB: Gustaf Lagerbielke
CB: Isak Hien (C)
LWB: Gabriel Gudmundsson
RWB:Alexander Bernhardsson
CM: Yasin Ayari
CM: Lucas Bergvall
AM: Benjamin Nygren
CF: Alexander Isak
CF: Viktor Gyökeres
Alternative systems featuring both Gyökeres and Isak have been tested by Potter and could appear during the tournament, particularly against stronger opponents where Sweden may look to play more directly to Gyökeres.
Dejan Kulusevski missing through injury removes one of the side’s most creative outlets and increases the importance of Bergvall and Elanga.
The Swedes possess one of the most dangerous attacking units outside the tournament favourites, defensively though they will have to be compact and resolute.
Turkey
What is the feeling in the local media and among the fanbase?
There is a great sense of anticipation around Türkiye’s first World Cup campaign in 24 years, a tournament in which they famously finished 3rd. Having come through a decent enough qualifying group in 2nd to the indomitable Spain, before beating Romania and Kosovo in the playoffs, there is hope that they can come through one of the kinder groups in this World Cup and potentially live up to the dark horse tag that seems to constantly follow them around. A Euros quarter final in 2024 was a decent effort but expectation continues to build as the younger core of this side approach their prime and the domestic league continues to attract decent level names not just in the twilights of their careers but also at their peak
The player who could make or break the campaign?
Whilst all the talk is of Guler and Yildiz, for me it’s midfielder Orkun Kokcu that could prove the key to a strong Turkish campaign. Equally at home deeper in midfield or as more of a classic #10, it’s this tactical versatility that will allow Turkiye to adapt their system dependent on opposition and either dominate the ball or compress the game a little more. Likely to start in a double pivot alongside veteran Hakan Calhanoglu, he will be given license to drive forward, shoot from range and link play in the final 3rd. Also a strong set piece taker, he could well be the glue that binds the young talent into a cohesive XI
The future star?
Arda Guler edges this for me on account of the fact that I think he has a slightly higher ceiling than Kenan Yildiz and could suit this team a touch better.
With Türkiye likely to play a fairly fluid front 4, Guler will nominally be the #10 but will be able to drift wide and in between the lines to find the ball in area he feels he can cause the opponent damage from. He’s a superb technical player with great close control and an effortless carrying style, and is very direct and positive in how he looks to use the ball. If he can bring his flashes of brilliance in Madrid to this tournament, Türkiye have a real chance
Likely starting XI?
4231
Cakir
Celik
Demiral
Bardakci
Kadioglu
Kokcu
Calhanoglu
Yilmaz
Guler
Yildiz
Akturkoglu
Prediction?
Türkiye 3-1 Australia
Türkiye 1-1 Paraguay
Türkiye 2-2 USA
A last 16 appearance would be a strong effort here, strong chance of a top 2 finish in the group
Belgium
Route to the World Cup Finals
Belgium were handed a relatively routine World Cup qualifying draw and ultimately came through it without too much difficulty. While they were unable to find a way past North Macedonia home and away, and also dropped points against Kazakhstan, they remained unbeaten throughout the campaign.
The Red Devils scored 29 goals from 20.94 expected goals, highlighting the quality they possess in attacking areas. More encouragingly, a side traditionally associated with its forward talent conceded just seven goals during qualification, with an expected goals against figure of only 5.57.
The Belgian “Golden Generation” is entering its final chapter. A third place finish at the 2018 World Cup showed that Belgium were capable of competing with the very best, but since then there has been a feeling of opportunity missed. Defeat to Italy at Euro 2020, a disappointing group stage exit in Qatar and a loss to France at the last European Championships have left this group still searching for a defining moment in history.
For Kevin De Bruyne, Romelu Lukaku and Thibaut Courtois, this World Cup may represent one final opportunity to deliver the major international honour that has eluded them throughout their careers.
Leading Belgium’s charge is Rudi Garcia. The 62 year old succeeded Domenico Tedesco in January 2025 and has brought a relatively traditional approach to the role. Belgium remain a talented side, but this feels like a squad entering a period of transition rather than one approaching its peak.
How Will Belgium Set Up?
Garcia recently experimented with dropping Amadou Onana into a back three during a 2-0 warm up victory over Croatia, something that may become a useful option later in the tournament when Belgium are required to defend for longer periods or protect leads against stronger opposition.
However, Belgium are expected to begin the competition in a 4-2-3-1 shape and will look to dominate possession against the majority of teams they face.
In build up, their front four is extremely fluid. Kevin De Bruyne and Leandro Trossard regularly drift away from their starting positions to receive possession between the lines, while Belgium look to manipulate opponents centrally before switching play quickly into wide areas.
A key feature of their attacking play is creating isolated situations for Jeremy Doku. Once Belgium are able to find the Manchester City winger in space, he becomes their primary outlet for progression, carrying the ball forward and attacking defenders in one versus one situations.
Out of possession, Belgium are not an especially aggressive pressing side. Instead, they tend to settle into a compact 4-4-2 mid block, looking to remain organised and engage opponents on a more man oriented basis rather than chasing the ball high up the pitch.
One of the major storylines heading into the tournament will be the fitness of Romelu Lukaku. Belgium’s record goalscorer has been absent for much of the season and may need time to build rhythm and sharpness as the competition progresses. As a result, Charles De Ketelaere is expected to lead the line during the opening stages of the tournament.
Expected Line Up
GK: Thibaut Courtois
LB: Maxim De Cuyper
LCB: Arthur Theate
RCB: Nathan Ngoy
RB: Timothy Castagne
CM: Amadou Onana
CM: Youri Tielemans
CAM: Kevin De Bruyne
LW: Leandro Trossard
ST: Charles De Ketelaere
RW: Jeremy Doku
Overall Prediction
The group stage could hardly have been kinder to Belgium and it would be a major surprise if they failed to progress as group winners.
There is still plenty of quality within this squad and, importantly, many of the players have significant experience of major tournaments and high pressure matches. A place in the quarter finals feels well within reach and, from that point onwards, knockout football often becomes a question of momentum and opportunity.
That said, there are genuine concerns surrounding the depth of the squad, particularly in defensive areas. Against stronger nations, Belgium’s resilience will be tested in a way that it simply won’t be during the group phase.
Can they remain composed when they are forced to defend for extended periods? What happens when they cannot rely on a moment of inspiration from Kevin De Bruyne or Jeremy Doku? How do they respond if they fall behind in a knockout tie? And how will some of their ageing stars cope with the demands of a tournament played in the summer heat of the United States?
Belgium have enough quality to make a deep run, but there are teams in this competition with greater flexibility, greater depth and more solutions when matches become difficult. Because of that, it would be no surprise to see Belgium reach the latter stages. Equally, it would not be a surprise to see them suffer another disappointing exit against a side many would expect them to beat.
Bosnia-Herzegovina
What’s the feeling in the local media / fanbase?
The overwhelming feeling across Bosnia & Herzegovina is one of pride. Qualification for the World Cup is being celebrated not just because of the achievement itself, but because it has challenged a long standing feeling that seems to follow Bosnian football. There has often been a feeling among supporters that the national team carries an almost built-in sense of bad luck, whether through near misses, difficult qualifying campaigns or opportunities that somehow slipped away at the final hurdle. That narrative was shattered when this new generation defeated Italy to secure their place at the World Cup.
An interesting part of the story is the makeup of the squad itself. A significant number of players were not developed within Bosnia & Herzegovina’s domestic system, instead coming through football cultures in countries such as Sweden and the United States. Some supporters believe this has helped the team overcome some of the psychological baggage that has followed previous generations, allowing them to approach qualifying with a different mentality.
As a result, expectations heading into the tournament remain relatively measured. Most supporters are simply enjoying the moment rather than demanding a deep run. The conversation has already started to shift towards what comes next, with many hoping the football federation can use this success to improve infrastructure, strengthen youth development and create better pathways for talented players growing up within Bosnia & Herzegovina.
The player who could make or break the campaign?
The obvious answer is Edin Džeko. Despite his age, he remains the leader of this Bosnia & Herzegovina side and continues to influence games in ways that extend far beyond goals. His ability to hold the ball up, relieve pressure, bring others into play and give the team a platform higher up the pitch remains crucial. In a tournament environment where Bosnia are likely to spend periods without possession, Džeko’s experience and ability to lead from the front could prove invaluable.
Despite that, much of the excitement surrounding this squad centres on 21-year-old Esmir Bajraktarević. He is the type of player capable of producing moments that can change games and lift supporters from their seats. Fearless and full of confidence, he plays with a freedom that this Bosnia team has occasionally lacked in previous generations. The perfect example came in the decisive victory over Italy when, with qualification on the line, he attempted a rabona in the closing stages. It was a moment that summed up his mentality and the confidence running through this squad.
At the other end of the pitch, Nikola Katić provides the defensive foundation. Dominant physically and a significant threat from set pieces, he gives Bosnia stability when defending in a compact shape. If Džeko provides the leadership and Bajraktarević provides the spark, Katić may be the player tasked with ensuring the platform remains intact.
The Future Star?
Esmir Bajraktarević is the obvious standout from Bosnia & Herzegovina’s next generation. The former New England Revolution player has already shown he possesses the confidence and fearlessness to influence games on the biggest stage, with a style built around taking risks and creating moments others would not attempt. A return to North America should provide him with the platform to continue showcasing his talents to a wider audience.
Alongside him, Kerim Alajbegović is another exciting young prospect. Together, the pair give Bosnia a significant threat in attacking transition. Both are capable of carrying the ball into space and turning defensive situations into dangerous counter-attacks, offering a glimpse of what the future of this national team could look like.
Likely starting XI?
4-4-2
GK - Vasij
RB - Dedić
CB - Katić
CB - Muharemović
LB - Kolašinac
RM - Alajbegović
CM - Tahirović
CM - Bašić
LM - Bajraktarević
ST - Demirović
ST - Džeko
Prediction ?
Canada 1-1 Bosnia & Herzegovina
Switzerland 2-0 Bosnia & Herzegovina
Bosnia & Herzegovina 3-0 Qatar
Germany
What’s the feeling in the local media/fanbase?
Germany enter the World Cup with an emotionally turbulent last 2 years after the Euros in 2024. Julian Nagelsmann has repeatedly come under criticism for his squad selection, and lacklustre performances in the Qualification phase as well as in the Nations League and other friendly games.
There are always the occasional games where Germany are the dominant force they are known to be, but more often than not, fans are treated to nail-biters against teams who on paper are far from the calibre that Germany has to offer.
This negative sentiment also culminated in March with a very public, and for most German fans, unwarranted criticism of Deniz Undav by Julian Nagelsmann.
With the pressure of failing in the group stage in Russia and Qatar, the pressure is on for the DFB Team.
Who is the player who could make or break the campaign?
While there are obviously plenty of great players on the German side, to me the key lies in Kai Havertz.
Germany’s biggest problem in games has been breaking down defensive blocks and their chance conversion rate. Havertz will be key here on two angles, one to score himself, as he proved in the Champions League Final for Arsenal, as well as in the last friendly against USA, but also in terms of dropping deeper and creating spaces and chances for players like Wirtz, Musiala, and Sane to run into. He will also be a crucial element dropping into a number 10 role once Woltemade or Undav get subbed on.
Who is the future star?
It would have been a clear Lennart Karl, who would have provided a much needed dynamism and excitement to the German side, but unfortunately he has been ruled out injured.
I would therefore say the future star lies in Aleksandar Pavlovic, who has missed most national call ups in the last 2 years due to illness and injuries, has been given the keys in the central midfield and the ball and tempo controlling player, taking on the deeper role, partnered with the box-to-box and more dynamic Nmecha. Obviously he is already renowned globally, but I believe this tournament, if Germany are successful, can take him to another level.
What’s the likely starting XI? (4–2–3–1)
Neuer - Kimmich, Tah, Schlotterbeck, Brown - Pavlovic, Nmecha - Wirtz, Musiala, Sane - Havertz
Prediction?
Germany - Curacao 4-0
Germany - Ivory Coast 1-1
Germany - Ecuador 2-1
Top of group with 7 points
Round of 16 Germany - Australia/Paraguay 2-0
Quarterfinal Germany - France 0-2
As mentioned, on a good day Germany can beat teams quite convincingly, unfortunately the consistency and pressure against the top teams will come to be their end in my opinion.
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