Germany: Group winners, but still far from convincing

Germany finished top of their group with six points, yet their overall performances left room for improvement. Their only truly dominant display came in the emphatic 7-1 victory over Curaçao, while the 2-1 success over Ivory Coast was far more difficult than expected and required a late winner to secure all three points.

The final group fixture exposed several lingering concerns. A 2-1 defeat to Ecuador highlighted familiar defensive frailties, with Germany once again looking vulnerable whenever they lost possession. Manuel Neuer, once renowned for consistently rescuing his side, has also found it increasingly difficult to cover for defensive mistakes.

Julian Nagelsmann has shown great faith in a settled starting XI throughout the tournament, making very few changes even when qualification was already secured. Injuries to Nico Schlotterbeck and Nathaniel Brown limited his options, although Brown is expected to return for the knockout stage. The biggest challenge now is whether Germany can iron out the tactical and defensive issues that have persisted over recent matches.

Paraguay: Defensive discipline has carried them through

Paraguay recovered well after an underwhelming start to the tournament. Following a disappointing defeat to the United States, Gustavo Alfaro's men responded with a narrow 1-0 victory over Turkey before grinding out a scoreless draw against Australia, doing enough to qualify as one of the best third-placed teams and reach the World Cup knockout stage for the first time since 2010.

While Paraguay have offered little attacking flair, they have compensated with resilience and organization. Only Tunisia created fewer chances during the group stage, but Paraguay have been clinical whenever opportunities have presented themselves.

Alfaro has not hesitated to adjust his tactical setup when circumstances demanded it. Suspensions prompted a switch to a three-man defense in the final group match, but against Germany the South Americans are expected to revert to their preferred formation. Regardless of the system, Paraguay will rely on compact defending, disciplined positioning, and quick counterattacks to frustrate the Germans.

Probable lineups

Germany: Neuer; Brown, Rüdiger, Tah, Kimmich; Pavlović, Nmecha; Wirtz, Musiala, Sané; Havertz.

Paraguay: Gil; Cáceres, Gómez, Alderete, Maidana; Cubas, Galarza, Bobadilla; César Enciso; Sanabria, Pitta.

Match facts & head-to-head

At least three goals have been scored in six of Germany's last eight World Cup matches.

Both teams have scored in each of Germany's previous six World Cup games.

Germany have earned at least six corners in seven of their last nine World Cup fixtures.

Germany have received no more than one yellow card in seven of their last eight World Cup matches.

Germany have conceded in each of their last nine World Cup games.

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