(Football news) The two bottom sides of 2022 World Cup Group E will go head-to-head at the Al Bayt Stadium when bottom place Germany take on third place Costa Rica in a bid to secure qualification into the Round of 16. Hansi Flick’s side secured a 1-1 draw against rivals Spain in the last match to keep their hopes alive while Costa Rica defeated Japan 1-0 thanks to an 81st minute winner by Keysher Fuller.

The Central American side could secure qualification for only the third time in their history if they do the unthinkable and defeat Germany while a draw will also suffice if Spain defeat Japan, whose goal difference of 0 is far superior to the -6 of Costa Rica.

It was back in 2014 when Costa Rica last won two consecutive matches in the World Cup which included a memorable 1-0 win over Italy but this time around, Germany will not be complacent as they know that nothing but a win will be enough to keep their hopes alive. Even a victory will not be enough for Hansi Flick’s side if Spain do not defeat Japan so German fans will have an eye on the other Group E fixture being played at the same time.

If Spain and Japan draw, Germany will have to defeat Costa Rica by at least two goals or more to go through on goal difference and if Japan defeat Spain, the Die Mannschaft will have to score more than five goals to eliminate Spain from the competition on goal difference.

It could potentially be the first time in Germany’s history that they could be eliminated from consecutive Group Stages and Flick would become the first manager who has failed to win any of his first three World Cup games. The last time these two teams met was in the 2006 World Cup when hosts Germany secured a 4-2 win, but that was a different time and era.

In team news, Leroy Sane is available once again after recovering from a knee injury and the Germans have no fresh injury concerns. Niclas Fullkrug, who scored against Spain, could potentially start instead of Thomas Muller while Ilkay Gundogan could drop in a deeper role in order to accommodate Sane in the starting lineup. The likes of Lukas Klostermann and Nico Schlotterbeck are both hoping to start instead of Thilo Kehrer on the right.

As for Costa Rica, centre-back Francisco Calvo is suspended after picking up a second booking of the tournament against Japan which means Juan Pablo Vargas could feature in a five man backline. Sunderland teenager Jewison Bennette could feature in the startling lineup as both Gerson Torres nor Anthony Contreras have failed to impress. The lack of goal threat for Costa Rica might cost them a place in the Round of 16 as Germany are expected to secure a win and a clean sheet in this fixture.

Also read: 2022 World Cup: Group E leaders Spain take on second place Japan