5 things that could help Germany retain the World Cup

#2 Squad depth

Kroos will be one of the main men for Germany

The Germans boast of one of the strongest squads in this year's World Cup with two or more quality players for each position.

Each player brings something different to the side. In attack, Timo Werner adds pace to the frontline; Thomas Muller is exceptional at finding space in the box; Marco Reus brings guile and tenacity to attacks; while Mesut Ozil can pick a pass better than most in the game.

The midfield has the yin and yang combo of Sami Khedira and Toni Kroos - two players that bring to different aspects of the midfield game to the table; one is combative and has presence, while the other is a human clock in the middle of the field. Leon Goretzka and Sebastian Rudy are the two other options for Low in midfield - two quality options for the Germans who offer something different.

Joachim Löw has several options in defence across the backline with the trusted duo of Hummels and Boateng most likely to form the heart of the defence. Matthias Ginter, Niklas Süle and Antonio Rüdiger could deputise for the duo - all three who've had good seasons for their clubs.