England will face Germany in the last 16 of Euro 2020 after the thrilling group stage matches came to a close on Wednesday.
The last time the two teams met in a major international tournament was at the same stage of the 2010 World Cup in South Africa, where Frank Lampard's famous 'ghost goal' was not given, leaving Germany victorious by four goals to two.
This historical fixture will take place at Wembley on Tuesday 29 June, but both teams have struggled to entirely convince at the tournament so far.
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Even though England finished at the top of their group with an impressive seven points, Southgate has been widely criticised by pundits and fans.
The England manager has made several changes to the starting XI throughout the group stage as the team have struggled to create chances, scoring only two goals in three games.
England talisman and captain Harry Kane is yet to perform to his usual high standards, with Raheem Sterling chipping in with both of the team's goals so far.
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However, something that will encourage England fans is their three clean sheets, illustrating their defensive solidity, which may prove crucial in order to progress through the tournament.
In contrast, Germany finished second in their group with four points and if it were not for a Thomas Muller injury before the final group game, Joachin Low would have named an unchanged starting XI for every game so far.
Germany have reverted to a back three for this tournament, with Joshua Kimmich and Ruben Gosens as the wing-backs, which has led to them scoring six goals and Chelsea's Kai Havertz being their top scorer with two.
Defensively, however, they have little to be admired, conceding five goals in three games.
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In an online Twitter poll, SPORTbible's audience has just given England the edge ahead of the game, receiving the majority of the vote (at the time of writing).
As we edge closer to this round-of-16 clash, there are reports that Southgate will make further changes to the starting XI that beat the Czech Republic.
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With Mason Mount and Ben Chilwell self-isolating until Monday, both Chelsea players are unlikely to be part of Southgate's team.
It is also suggested that England are considering to revert to a back three to match Germany's formation, with Kieran Trippier and Phil Foden also being tipped to return.
These alterations may see Jack Grealish return to the bench, despite his impressive display in England's 1-0 win against the Czech Republic.
Featured Image Credit: PATopics: Football, Euro 2020, UEFA, England, Germany
