Germany go into their second World Cup Group E game against Spain on Sunday knowing it is like a final, Germany coach Hansi Flick said on Saturday, with his team facing possible elimination if they are defeated again.
Asked whether the four-time world champions were still the mighty tournament team of the past as they face the prospect of a second early World Cup exit, he said the game on Sunday would determine Germany’s reputation.
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“This will be answered on Sunday. Maybe we have another answer to that question, the right answer,” Flick told a news conference.
Germany started their World Cup campaign with a shock 2-1 defeat by Japan on Wednesday after holding a 1-0 lead following a dominant first half.
