World Champions kick off Russia 2018 campaign against Norway

The defending World Champions Germany start their journey to book a ticket to the 2018 edition of the tournament in Russia with a away match to Norway this evening.

Joachim Low tutored side continued to display their attacking brand of football in the past few seasons. They have qualified as group winners in each of the last four qualifying campaigns for Euros and World Cups under Low. The same can be expected this term as they are drawn in a relatively easy group which includes Czech Republic, Northern Ireland, San Marino and Azerbaijan besides Sunday’s opponent Norway.

The Norwegians haven’t had any success in the qualification campaigns since their last appearance at the Euros in 2000. They made it to two consecutive World Cups during 1994 and 1998, since then they failed in the last four qualifiers. However, they can take some positives after making it to the final play-offs to qualify for Euro 2016. But they are drawn in a tough group and need some magic performances to upset the odds.

Norway vs Germany: Head-to-Head

The latest meeting between these two sides was in a friendly match at Dusseldorf on February 2009 in which Norway earned a surprise 1-0 win.

Norway’s only meeting with Germany in a World Cup qualifying match can be dated back to 1953. The Germans won the home leg 5-1 after holding the Norwegians to a 1-1 draw in the away leg.

Norway vs Germany: Prediction

Germany have a formidable record in the qualifying tournaments and they hardly disappoints in competitive fixtures. The Norwegians are a relatively young side and coming with an inexperienced defense. While the Germans like to press high up the field and dominate the possession, goals will come in plenty.