England U-21s vs Germany U-21s predictions: Tight tie expected in Group C finale
- England are already through to the last eight after two wins from two
- Germany have only picked up a draw from their first two games
- Recommended bet: Draw
England Under-21s face Germany Under-21s in their final Group C clash at the European Under-21 Championship with the Young Lions already safely through to the knockout stages as group winners.
After 2-0 victories over both Czech Republic and Israel, Lee Carsley's side know whatever the outcome in Batumi on Wednesday they are assured of top spot in the section, as the Czechs are the only other side who can join them on six points but they have an inferior head-to-head record.
Germany, in contrast, only have a point on the board so far after drawing 1-1 with Israel in their opener before going down 2-1 to the Czech youngsters, so the reigning U-21 European champions are in serious danger of an early exit.
Only a win will do for Antonio di Salvo's side if they are to give themselves any chance of finishing second and even then they are relying on Israel to beat Czech Republic in the other game in the group as well.
Team news
England full-back Max Aarons is expected to have recovered from the illness that kept him out of the Israel game and he could return in defence.
England boss Carsley is expected to make changes with qualification already sealed so Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite, Tottenham midfielder Oliver Skipp, Liverpool playmaker Harvey Elliott and Manchester City forward Cole Palmer could all come in to start.
Arsenal youngster Emile Smith Rowe has scored twice in the tournament so will hope to keep his place in the XI as he bids to add to his goal tally.
Germany forward Angelo Stiller picked up a knock against Czech Republic so he faces a late fitness test, while striker Youssoufa Moukoko is pushing for a recall after he was left on the bench last time.
The stats
England U-21s have only failed to score in one of their last 19 matches, while both teams have scored in five of Germany U-21s last six games.
Germany are the reigning European U-21 champions, having won the crown in Hungary and Slovenia in 2021, which was the country's third European title at this level.
England have been crowned European U-21 champions twice previously — in 1982 and 1984.
Prediction
Despite their contrasting fortunes in the tournament so far, there is likely to be little to choose between the two sides in this Group C finale.
Germany's need for a win is clear and that should result in them adopting an attacking approach as they hope to secure all three points while relying on Israel beating Czech Republic.
Carsley could decide to make changes but if players of the calibre of Elliott and Palmer come in, they are not going to weaken the Young Lions, who should be full of confidence after two wins from two so far.
Therefore, an entertaining draw could well play out to preserve England's unbeaten status in the tournament while also signalling Germany's shock early exit from the competition.
