World Cup 2018: 3 things Germany has to do if they do not want to crash out in the group stage

#2 Play an actual defensive midfielder

The Kroos-Khedira partnership wasn't as successful on the pitch as it was on paper

Who knew playing Kroos and Khedira, two defensive midfielders who are more concentrated on the midfielder part of the title rather than on the defensive part together might not work out so great at the end?

Kroos has never had to defend ever during his time at Real Madrid, and that is not what he is known for anyway. Khedira, during his time at Juventus, is more defensive oriented, but still prone to the occasional run forwards.

Against Mexico however, it was just free real estate ahead for the pacey Mexicans and they made sure they used every inch of it.

Far too often, Kroos and Khedira were occupied up front with only Hummels and Boateng covering. No matter how good the defenders are, two players are no match against 3 or 4 or even 5 marauding Mexicans.

The other major option - Gundogan, is not known for his defensive prowess either and will not provide that kind of cover.

The only way is to play Rudy, who is one of Bayern's most solid players, and hope that the creative force is enough to do damage while Rudy sorts out the defense.

Joachim Low, if you are reading this: Please start Marco Reus.