World Cup 2022 Group E predictions & odds: Germans could edge past La Roja

Predictions, outright odds and betting tips for the Group E at the 2022 World Cup.

Best bet

Germany-Spain straight forecast
2pts 7-4 BoyleSports

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Group E preview

The odds suggest Group E is a straight shootout between Germany and Spain for top spot and it’s hard to argue with that stance.

Costa Rica have an ageing squad and rely on goalkeeper Keylor Navas while Japan’s self-destructive tendencies were evident in a 3-0 defeat to Tunisia in June’s Kirin Cup final.

A Germany-Spain dual forecast offers little value at 4-11, though, so it could pay to bank on Die Mannschaft leading home La Roja.

Neither team are without their faults. Spain lack a regular goalscorer and Luis Enrique’s reluctance to veer away from a possession-heavy style could be problematic, while Germany’s recent performances at major tournaments have been underwhelming.

But in Hansi Flick, who led Bayern Munich to the treble in 2020 – and consequently has strong relationships with several squad members – Germany have a composed and experienced figure in the dugout and he could carry them a long way in Qatar.

Like Spain, there are also concerns about who will lead their attack, but Germany have the wide players and attacking midfielders to compensate, with Kai Havertz, Thomas Muller, Leroy Sane and Serge Gnabry all proven goalscorers.

A 5-2 thrashing of European champions Italy and draws with the Netherlands and England this year show that Germany have regained some stability.

At the prices, they are worth chancing to finish above group rivals Spain, who have fewer leaders in their squad and appear to be less dynamic up front.

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