Germany

Manager: Joachim Low

World Ranking: 2nd

Best World Cup finish: Winners (1954, 1974, 1990)

How they qualified: Coasted through their qualification group as they won nine of their 10 games, with the only blot on their copy book coming in a thrilling 4-4 with Sweden in their last game.

Fixtures: Portugal (16 June), Ghana (21 June), USA (26 June)

Squad:

Goalkeepers: Manuel Neuer, Roman Weidenfeller, Ron-Robert Zieler

Defenders: Jerome Boateng, Erik Durm, Kevin Grosskreutz, Benedikt Howedes, Mats Hummels, Philipp Lahm, Per Mertesacker

Midfielders: Julian Draxler, Matthias Ginter, Mario Gotze, Christoph Kramer, Sami Khedira, Toni Kroos, Mesut Ozil, Marco Reus, Andre Schurrle, Bastian Schweinsteiger

Forwards: Thomas Muller, Lucas Podolski, Miroslav Klose

Expectations:

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Germany's evolution into one of world football's most well-equipped attacking units sees them enter Brazil 2014 expected to realise the potential that has followed them for the past 12 years. With a squad so boldly inundated with outstanding options, questions may be asked if Joachim Low's side let another tournament pass them by. Third place finishes in 2010 and 2006 count for nothing in the grand scheme of things and for a side who have so often marvelled through their brand of high-pressing, high octane football, taking that extra step with many of their former starlets now reaching their peak is crucial.

In his final 23, Low has named just one centre forward in the evergreen Miroslav Klose, who will be 36 by the time his side get underway against Portugal. The invention and relentless goal threat carried by Marco Reus, Thomas Muller and Mesut Ozil can one again be perfect foil for the veteran striker, who is within two goals of surpassing the great Ronaldo's record as the all-time World Cup top goal scorer.

Star man: Marco Reus – The exceptionally talented 25-year-old will have a pivotal role to play in supplementing the goal threat of Klose. The attacking midfielder struck 21 goals and provided a further 15 last season and his contribution from the left with Thomas Muller likely to occupy the space on the inside right channel will be essential to Germany's ambition in Brazil.

Prediction: Third - Despite their abundance of talent, Germany's difficult travel schedule during the group and the daunting climate changes that threaten to disrupt their rhythm may ensure this golden generation must wait to realise their potential on the international stage.

Germany World cup Portugal