MOSCOW: Mesut Ozil will start Germany’s World Cup Group F opener against Mexico on Sunday, after coach Joachim Loew opted for the experienced midfielder instead of speedy Marco Reus.
Ozil, who days ago recovered from injury and had to deal with a barrage of criticism in Germany over a controversial photo with Turkey president Tayyip Erdogan, will partner Julian Draxler and Thomas Mueller in the world champions’ attacking midfield.
Loew also made one change to his defence, replacing left back Jonas Hector with Marvin Plattenhardt.
Mexico’s all-time top scorer Javier Hernandez earned a spot in coach Juan Carlos Osorio’s line-up as they look for their first tournament win over Germany.--REUTERS