Germany open their World Cup campaign against Japan in Group E.

The four-time World Cup champions return following the disastrous defence of their 2014 title four years ago.

FOLLOW LIVE: Germany vs Japan – latest World Cup updates

But they have rediscovered their confidence under Hansi Flick and boast a talented squad of forwards, including the potential breakout star Jamal Musiala.

Germany play Spain in their second match so cannot afford any slip-ups, while Japan will be hopeful of causing an upset. Here’s everything you need to know.

When is Germany vs Japan?

The match will kick off at 1pm GMT on Wednesday 23 November at the Khalifa International Stadium.

What TV channel is it on and how can I watch online?

It will be shown live on ITV 1, with coverage starting at 12:10pm, as well as online on ITV X.

What was the team news?

Leroy Sane has been ruled out of Germany’s opening fixture with a knee injury but Thomas Muller and Antonio Rudiger have appeared to shake off fitness concerns and are in line to start.

Hansi Flick must decide whether to start Kai Havertz up front or go for the more conventional striker Niclas Fullkrug.

Arsenal defender Takehiro Tomiyasu should be fit enough to start for Japan, who have a wealth of attacking options.

Confirmed line-ups

Germany: Neuer; Schlotterbeck, Sule, Rudiger, Raum; Kimmich, Gundogan; Gnabry, Muller, Musiala; Havertz

Japan: Gonda; Sakai, Itakura, Yoshida, Ito, Nagatomo; Endo, Tanaka; Kubo, Kamada, Maeda

Odds

Germany: 1/2

Draw: 19/5

Japan: 13/2

Prediction

Japan may have their moments but Germany’s attacking options should be too much for them to handle in an open and entertaining game. Germany 3-1 Japan