Moscow, June 16: Defending champions Germany will kick-off their title defence when they take on Mexico in a Group F match of the 2018 FIFA World Cup at the Luzhniki Stadium here on June 17, Sunday. Germany vs Mexico, first match Group F start time is 8.30 pm IST. In their previous 11 meetings, Germany have won six times while the South Americans managed just a single win. Sweden and South Korea are the other two teams in this group. 2018 FIFA World Cup Group D Preview: Schedule Timetable With Match Dates, Venues & Kick-Off Times in IST of Argentina, Iceland, Croatia, and Nigeria in Football WC.

Germany passed the qualification stage with ease as they won all their ten games, thus becoming the first team to win all their qualification matches. The Manuel Neuer-led side however, haven't been at their best this year as Germany managed to win just one of their four international friendlies in 2018. While they defeated Saudi Arabia 2-1, they suffered losses against Brazil and Austria.

The biggest concern for Germany was the fitness of their star players Manuel Neuer and Jerome Boateng. Later, Neuer recovered from a serious foot injury to be fit for the mega event. Germany's defence will witness Boateng and Mats Hummels as the duo's role will be crucial on Sunday. On the other hand, Jonas Hector and Joshua Kimmich will form the full backs while Sami Khedira and Toni Kroos will feature in the midfield. The attacking lineup will be formed by striker Timo Werner, Thomas Muller on the right flank and Mesut Ozil.

On the other side, Mexico too, have a settled squad. Jesus Gallardo and Miguel Layun are likely to be the full-backs on the left and right sides, respectively. Mexico's defence will feature Hector Moreno and Hugo Ayala, who form a formidable partnership. 2018 FIFA World Cup Group F Preview: Schedule Timetable With Match Dates, Venues & Kick-Off Times in IST of Germany, Mexico, Sweden, and South Korea in Football WC.

With the likes of Hector Herrera and Andres Guardado, Mexico's biggest strength lies in the midfield. The duo will be supported by either Jonathan dos Santos or Marco Fabian, who ever gets a chance in Sunday's game. Hirving Lozano, Carlos Vela, Giovani dos Santos and Oribe Peralta will lead the Mexican attack. Also, Javier Hernandez and Raul Jimenez are the other two contenders for the striker's slot.

Germany probable starting lineup: Neuer, Kimmich, Boateng, Hummels, Rudiger, Khedira, Kroos, Ozil, Muller, Reus, Werner.

Mexico probable starting lineup: Ochoa, Salcedo, Moreno, Ayala, Marquez, Herrera, Jonathan dos Santos, Guardado, Giovani Dos Santos, Vela, Hernandez.

Germany vs Mexico, 2018 FIFA World Cup Group F Match 1 Prediction: Germany 3 - 0 Mexico (Inputs from IANS)

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jun 17, 2018 01:08 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).