Germany’s Starting XI: Undav Starts, Musiala on Bench

Germany’s starting lineup for the Round of 16 match against Paraguay includes Deniz Undav in goal, a surprise selection after Musiala’s omission. The German side will look to build on their 2-0 group-stage victory over Costa Rica, though they face a tougher challenge against Paraguay, who defeated Ecuador 2-1 in their opener.

According to the German Football Association (DFB), the starting lineup is as follows:

• GK: Deniz Undav (Bayern Munich)
• DEF: Jonathan Tah (Bayer Leverkusen), Niklas Süle (Real Madrid), Antonio Rüdiger (Real Madrid), Mats Hummels (Borussia Dortmund)
• MID: Jamal Musiala (Chelsea) (on bench), Florian Wirtz (Borussia Mönchengladbach), Leroy Sané (Bayern Munich), Toni Kroos (Real Madrid)
• FW: Niclas Füllkrug (Borussia Dortmund), Kai Havertz (Arsenal), Serge Gnabry (Bayern Munich)

Musiala’s absence from the starting lineup has raised questions, particularly after his strong performances in Germany’s group-stage matches. Nagelsmann has not provided a clear explanation, but reports suggest Musiala may have been rested for this matchup.

Paraguay’s Starting XI: Focus on Midfield Dominance

Paraguay, managed by Eduardo Berizzo, will look to capitalize on their early tournament success with a lineup centered around midfield control. Their starting XI includes key players like Gustavo Gómez and Derlis González, who will be crucial in dictating play against Germany’s attacking trio.

Paraguay’s official lineup, as confirmed by the Paraguayan Football Association (APF), is:

• GK: José Luis Chilavert (ex-Milan)
• DEF: Gustavo Gómez (Flamengo), Derlis González (Sporting CP), Pablo Valdez (Flamengo), José Ortigoza (Cruzeiro)
• MID: Bruno Valdez (Sporting CP), Alejandro Romero (Flamengo), Rodrigo Rojas (Sporting CP), Antonio Sanabria (Sporting CP)
• FW: Diego Rojas (Sporting CP), Kevin Gamarra (Sporting CP), Víctor Aquino (Sporting CP)

Paraguay’s midfield trio—Valdez, Romero, and Rojas—will be tasked with breaking down Germany’s defense, while their forwards will aim to exploit any gaps left by Nagelsmann’s tactical setup.

Key Tactical Considerations

Germany’s lineup suggests a 4-3-3 formation, with Musiala’s absence potentially forcing Nagelsmann to rely more on Leroy Sané and Florian Wirtz for creativity. Paraguay, meanwhile, will likely deploy a 4-2-3-1, using their midfield to control possession and transition quickly into attacks.

One tactical battle to watch will be how Germany’s full-backs, Jonathan Tah and Mats Hummels, handle Paraguay’s wide forwards, Diego Rojas and Víctor Aquino. Paraguay’s midfielders will need to disrupt Germany’s rhythm, while Germany’s forwards will look to exploit any defensive vulnerabilities.

According to tactical analysts at Transfermarkt, Germany’s lack of a dedicated playmaker in the starting XI could be a weakness, particularly if Musiala remains on the bench. Paraguay’s ability to press high and force turnovers will be critical.

Injury and Availability Updates

Germany’s only notable absence is Jamal Musiala, who is expected to come on as a substitute. No other major injuries have been reported ahead of the match. Paraguay’s squad remains fully fit, with no significant absences expected.

Nagelsmann has been cautious with his squad rotations, ensuring key players like Toni Kroos and Mats Hummels remain fresh for the knockout stages. Paraguay’s manager, Eduardo Berizzo, has also emphasized fitness, with all starters expected to be fully available.

What Happens Next: Round of 16 Schedule and Implications

The winner of Germany vs. Paraguay will advance to the quarterfinals, where they will face either Brazil or Venezuela, depending on the results of the other Round of 16 matches. The losing team will be eliminated from the tournament.

For Germany, a victory would set up a potential rematch with Brazil in the quarterfinals, while Paraguay’s path to the knockout stages remains uncertain. The team will need to perform strongly to overcome Germany’s attacking firepower.

The next match in the Round of 16 will be between Uruguay and Peru, scheduled for June 3 at Estadio San Carlos de Apoquindo in Santiago.

How to Follow the Match

The Germany vs. Paraguay match will be broadcast live on ESPN, BBC Sport, and DFB’s official channels. Fans can also follow updates on social media via @DFB_en and @APF_Paraguay.

Kickoff is set for 10:30 AM local time (14:30 UTC) at Estadio Nacional in Santiago, Chile. Weather conditions are expected to be mild, with temperatures around 18°C (64°F).