Germany expects turnaround

World Cup holders Germany face enormous pressure ahead of their second group match against Sweden, dubbed an “early final”, with Joachim Loew’s team knowing defeat today would effectively end their campaign. The pre-tournament talk in Germany focused much on the bid to become the first team for 56 years to retain the FIFA World Cup. But after a shock 1-0 defeat to Mexico, the four-time winners must beat the Swedes in Sochi to be sure of staying in the tournament. Suddenly, the sweet taste of their victory in Rio de Janeiro four years ago seems like a long time ago. An atrocious first-half display against Mexico stunned fans in football-mad Germany, who have grown used to regular success. The World Cup winners, accustomed to easy questions from their press and the backing of adoring fans, have been stung by a swarm of criticism.