South Korea v Germany  

Germany’s last-gasp goal against Sweden ensures they go into their final group game against South Korea in second spot, but the world champions remain in real danger of being eliminated if they fail to claim a win on Wednesday.

The Germans are yet to show the kind of form that saw them claim the World Cup in Brazil four years ago, but that winning mentality and never-say-die attitude is clearly still there.

Toni Kroos personified that spirit as the midfielder had a poor game but popped up with a sensational winner at the death against the Swedes – and they should be able to avoid falling at the first hurdle even if they’re not at top form against South Korea.

Germany win and both to score @ 2.5

South Korea may be pointless after their two games, but their campaign in Russia isn’t necessarily over.  To qualify they must beat the Germans and hope Mexico can beat Sweden in the other World Cup Group F match and, although unlikely, that scenario isn’t completely out of the question.

South Korea coach Shin Tae-yong knows only a win will do, so I’m anticipating an attacking line-up from the East Asians and with Spurs star Son Heung-min in attack, they always carry a goal threat. Son should know some of the German players fairly well after spending five years in the Bundesliga with Hamburg and Bayer Leverkusen and looks a good anytime goalscorer option at 4.35.

Joachim Low’s defence has also been weakened by Jerome Boateng’s suspension and a goal for the Taegeuk Warriors is a real possibility, but Germany’s resolve and quality should come through and they can go on to claim a win even if their backline is breached.

Germany to win 3-1 @ 11.75

If South Korea score first, their game plan will change in order to defend their lead but that will allow Germany to pile on the pressure and – as we saw against Sweden – they are more than capable of finding a way through sides who defend in numbers.  If Germany score first Shin’s men will have no other option that to go for an all-out attacking approach and that should lead to chances at both ends.

Over 3.5 goals at 2.20 and perhaps even over 4.5 goals at 3.80 look solid options, but it could pay to be bold and go for a correct score bet and a 3-1 win for Germany is an enticing proposition at 11.75.