The final game of the first round of matches at Euro 2020 is perhaps the biggest in the competition so far. Powerhouses France and Germany clash in Munich in this Group F showdown between two of the heavyweights at the tournament.
Ahead of this mouthwatering meeting, we provide the necessary pre-match information, including what time the game kicks off, where to watch the match, team news and probable XIs.
When is kick off?
Tuesday 15th June, 20:00 GMT
Where is the match?
Allianz Arena, Munich (Germany)
What TV channel is it on?
ITV
Last Tournament Performance
The 2018 World Cup was a memorable one for France, and an important triumph after their Euro 2016 heartbreak on home turf. Les Bleus went all the way in Russia, lifting the World Cup for the second time in their history. Conversely, Germany's World Cup defence was awful. The 2014 winners finished bottom of Group F in Russia as they picked up just three points, losing to Mexico and South Korea in the process.
Team news
Karim Benzema was forced off in France's pre-Euro 2020 win over Bulgaria and after his grand return to the France national team, he'll hope to be fit to start against Germany. Olivier Giroud is waiting in reserve to deputise if needed. Kurt Zouma will also be assessed, though was unlikely to have started with Raphael Varane and Presnel Kimpembe first choice under Didier Deschamps. Corentin Tolisso and Adrien Rabiot are competing for the final spot in midfield, with the former expected to be given the nod.
Jonas Hofmann misses out against France, but would not have started even if fit, while Leon Goretzka has returned to training with the Germany national team. The Bayern midfielder is not expected to be available for Jogi Loew until the meeting with Portugal next week. Thomas Muller and Mats Hummels are expected to feature after their return to the international setup, while in the absence of right-backs, Joshua Kimmich is set to move to right wing-back in a three-man defensive setup.
Probable XIs
France (4312) - Lloris; Pavard, Varane, Kimpembe, Hernandez; Kante, Tolisso, Pogba; Muller; Benzema, Mbappe
Germany (3421) - Neuer; Ginter, Hummels, Rudiger; Kimmich, Gundogan, Kroos, Gosens; Muller, Havertz; Gnabry
Key Battle: Paul Pogba vs Ilkay Gundogan
Paul Pogba played a central role in France's 2018 World Cup success and while he endured his injury issues this season, the midfielder became a key man for Manchester United upon his return to Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's side. While he was unable to help United to Europa League succees, Pogba is a player who steps up in the major tournaments and if Les Bleus are to secure a second World Cup-Euros double, then the 28-year-old will be hugely influential in the middle of the park.
After his most prolific league season of his career, and by some distance, Ilkay Gundogan comes into Euro 2020 on the back of a superb campaign as he played his part for Manchester City in their title success. With 13 league goals to his name, Germany head coach Jogi Loew is hoping Gundogan can transfer his club form to the international stage as the 61-year-old looks to bow out with a Euros winners' medal around his neck.
Score Prediction: France 1-0 Germany
