World Cup 2018: 4 reasons why Germany is struggling in Russia

#3 Inclusions and exclusions

Joachim Low's selection choices has raised many eyebrows

There have been a few surprise omissions from every top team at this World Cup. So many quality players have been left out by their respective national teams. But undoubtedly the decision not to include Leroy Sane raised quite a few eyebrows.

While this was not the only surprising decision Joachim Low had taken, he chose to start Manuel Neuer who was playing his first competitive game in nine months over Marc Andre ter Stegen who has been in phenomenal form for FC Barcelona.

With all due to respect to Neuer he has made some wonderful saves, but for Sweden's first goal Neuer was quick to come off his line even with Rudiger still close to the ball, the ball was then chipped over him. He could not make the correct decision, which is natural because he hasn't played for long.

So far it seems that the decision not to include Sane has backfired for Germany. Die Mannschaft continually pass the ball, but when the opposition presses more aggressively they give away possession.

It is clear that either they need to pass the ball better under pressure or they bring in a dribbler like Sane who can go past players even under pressure. His replacement Julian Brandt has been given very little time to impress.