Overview
- On Saturday Julian Nagelsmann named the same eleven who beat Curaçao, confirming Leroy Sané on the right wing.
- Manuel Neuer started in goal and is set to make his 21st World Cup appearance, which would extend his tournament record for goalkeepers.
- The Ivory Coast arrive off a 1-0 win over Ecuador and are viewed by German staff as a fast, physical side that will pose a sustained defensive test.
- Coach Emerse Faé kept Elye Wahi in his squad and on the bench despite media reports of a French investigation, a developing matter that has not removed the player from selection.
- The Netherlands’ 5-1 win over Sweden and the expanded 48-team format mean group results and goal difference are now more decisive for early qualification scenarios.