Expected lineup for Germany and Ivory Coast (World Cup 2026 Group E): Wirtz faces Fofana

Germany is likely to continue with a 4-2-3-1 formation, the system that helped them crush Curaçao 7-1 in their opening match. In goal, veteran Manuel Neuer remains a reliable last line of defense thanks to his experience and ability to organize the backline. The defensive quartet of Joshua Kimmich, Jonathan Tah, Nico Schlotterbeck, and Brown offers a balance between ball circulation and attacking support. Kimmich is especially important for his movements into central areas to increase numbers in midfield.

Germany's midfield, featuring Aleksandar Pavlović and Felix Nmecha, is tasked with maintaining rhythm and supporting pressing. Although not as flashy as the forward line, this duo serves as the foundation for Germany to sustain a high-intensity playing style under Julian Nagelsmann's philosophy.

Die Mannschaft's greatest strength remains their attack. The trio of Leroy Sané, Jamal Musiala, and Florian Wirtz forms a highly creative triangle behind Kai Havertz. Musiala with his dribbling, Wirtz with his tactical vision, and Sané with his pace can tear apart any defense. Havertz remains the final destination, offering flexibility between a number 9 and a false 10 role.

On the other side, Ivory Coast is expected to play a counter-attacking 4-4-2. Yahia Fofana guards the goal, protected by a physically strong backline of Guela Doué, Wilfried Singo, Emmanuel Agbadou, and Ghislain Konan. This quartet's task is to block space in midfield and limit Musiala's penetration.

The midfield is the most critical area for the "Elephants," anchored by Franck Kessié and Seko Fofana. This duo possesses immense strength, experience, and excellent tackling ability. The flanks, with Amad Diallo and Ousmane Diomandé, could become dangerous weapons when Germany pushes forward.

Up front, Bonny and Bazoumana Touré bring speed and the ability to exploit spaces behind Germany's defense—an area Die Mannschaft have yet to fully address.

Overall, Germany holds a clear advantage in possession, squad depth, and individual quality. However, Ivory Coast possesses a sharp counter-attacking structure capable of causing problems if they capitalize on gaps. The midfield battle between Musiala and Wirtz against Kessié and Fofana will likely be the key to deciding the match's outcome.

Expected lineup for Germany and Ivory Coast

Germany (4-2-3-1): Neuer; Kimmich, Tah, Schlotterbeck, Brown; Pavlovic, Nmecha; Sane, Musiala, Wirtz; Havertz.

Ivory Coast (4-4-2): Y. Fofana; Doue, Singo, Agbadou, Konan; Diallo, Kessie, Seko Fofana, Diomande; Bonny, Toure.