Ruediger stepping up, but few changes as Nagelsmann reluctant to shake up formula

Antonio Ruediger, often dubbed Germany's "bogeyman," is poised for increased playing time as coach Julian Nagelsmann considers minor adjustments to the starting lineup for their final World Cup Group E match against Ecuador. Germany has already secured qualification for the next round but faces a defensive test against an Ecuador side desperate to salvage their winless campaign. Center back Nico Schlotterbeck is out of the tournament due to an ankle injury.

Ruediger, a Real Madrid defender, stepped in effectively for the injured Schlotterbeck during Germany's 2-1 victory over Ivory Coast last week. With his knee no longer causing pain after undergoing surgery a year ago, he is expected to contribute significantly. "His knee doesn't bother him right now, he feels very good and I think he did a great job when he came into the match last time and he will do the same tomorrow," said Nagelsmann, via an interpreter. "We hope that Antonio is being rewarded with more match time."

“

His knee doesn't bother him right now, he feels very good and I think he did a great job when he came into the match last time and he will do the same tomorrow. We hope that Antonio is being rewarded with more match time.

The four-time champions have shown resilience in this tournament, bouncing back after failing to advance past the group stage in the previous two editions. Nagelsmann indicated he is not inclined to make extensive changes to the starting eleven. This suggests that super-sub Deniz Undav may once again begin on the bench.

Undav, who scored two goals in the comeback win against Ivory Coast, stated he is content with his role. "If it weren't okay (starting on the bench) I wouldn't be here at this press conference. I will try to give my best input whether I'm in the starting lineup or later," he told reporters. "I joined from the bench twice and we won the game and I'm very happy about that... the most important thing is we win the match."

“

If it weren't okay (starting on the bench) I wouldn't be here at this press conference. I will try to give my best input whether I'm in the starting lineup or later. I joined from the bench twice and we won the game and I'm very happy about that... the most important thing is we win the match.