World Cup Predictions & Tips | Round of 32: Germany v Paraguay

Match 74: Germany v Paraguay
Location: Boston Stadium
Time: 8:30am Tuesday 30 June
Head to Head: Germany Wins (1), Paraguay Wins (0), Draws (1)

Key Stats

• Germany have score 2 or more goals in 10 of their last 12 games
• Germany leads the tournament in goals per game (3.3) and shots on target (7.3)
• Both Teams To Score has hit is 6-1 in Germany’s last 7 games
• Germany have qualified for the knockout stages 15 times and have made it through to the quarter finals or better on each occasion

Preview

Germany had already clinched top spot prior to their final group game against Ecuador but the 2-1 loss after taking the lead through Leroy Sane in the 2nd minute ended an 11-game win streak. They failed to maintain a clean sheet for the third consecutive game in the tournament with both teams to score having not hit in 6 of their last 7 games. Conceding has not been an issue for Germany as they have managed to score 2+ goals in 10 of their last 12.

A 0-0 draw against Australia was enough for Paraguay to progress as one of the best 3rd placed teams. It has been an incredible turnaround since their 4-1 loss to USA in the opening group game and they have now held 4 of their last 6 opponents to nil. Admittedly, Germany poses a significantly greater threat than the likes of Australia and Turkey in attack but the clean sheets will give them some confidence.

Holding Germany to nil and surviving 120 to get to a penalty shootout is not a realistic target but neither is trading goals with them as Paraguay have netted multiple times in only 3 of their last 13. Through the three group games, Germany leads the tournament in goals (3.3) and shots on target (7.3). In contrast, Paraguay were 45th with only 1.7 shots on target and that is despite not having to face a genuine powerhouse. You cannot compete against one of the world’s best if you are unable to create chances – whether it be on the counter of via set pieces. Germany will win by multiple goals.

Player To Watch

With Paraguay certain to put 11 bodies behind the ball, unlocking the defence and creating opportunities will be crucial to Germany’s success. Florian Wirtz will play a pivotal role in this and is the only German player to have assisted in multiple games this tournament. Wirtz and Kimmich lead the team in chances created (8 each) and the likes of Havertz and Musiala will be relying heavily on them to create genuine goal scoring opportunities.

Betting Tips

Best Bet: Germany -1.5 ($2.05)
Other: Anytime Assist – Florian Wirtz ($2.85)
Correct Score: Germany 3-0 ($9.50)
SGM: Germany WIN, Both Teams to Score – NO, Leroy Sane 2+ Shots ($2.83)