Group E gets underway with the meeting between Germany and Japan. The match kicks off at 16:00 Doha time on 23 November.

– Germany face Japan in the opening match of Group E – It is the first meeting between the two sides at a major tournament – Youssoufa Moukoko could become a record-breaker

After two disappointing tournaments at Russia 2018™ and UEFA EURO 2020, Germany will be keen to rediscover their former strength in Qatar and justify their reputation as a “tournament team”

The opening game against Japan will set the tone for the entire campaign for Hansi Flick’s side, as a defeat could leave them facing elimination as early as their second match against Spain.

Date and time 23 November, 16:00 Doha time Venue Khalifa International Stadium

In the Germany camp, it is not yet clear whether Antonio Rudiger or Thomas Muller will feature in Wednesday’s match, with both players approaching full fitness.

Possible starting XIs Germany: Manuel Neuer – Christian Gunter, Antonio Rudiger, Niklas Sule, Thilo Kehrer – Joshua Kimmich, Leon Goretzka – Leroy Sane, Jamal Musiala, Serge Gnabry – Kai Havertz Japan: Shuichi Gonda – Yuto Nagatomo, Maya Yoshida, Ko Itakura, Takehiro Tomiyasu – Wataru Endo, Hidemasa Morita – Ritsu Doan, Daichi Kamada, Takumi Minamino – Takuma Asano

Head to head This is the first encounter between these two sides at an international tournament, with Germany and Japan twice facing each other in friendlies. Germany won 3-0 in 2004, while their most recent meeting in 2006 ended in a 2-2 draw.