Germany begin Euro 2016 with doubts

Lille: Missing inspirational World Cup-winning captain Philipp Lahm, Germany begin Euro 2016 against Ukraine today with major doubts over whether they can reach the heights of Brazil two years ago.

The versatile Lahm retired from international football after the World Cup leaving a gap that coach Joachim Loew has found difficult to fill, whilst a series of injuries have further disrupted Germany’s preparation.

Moreover, erratic form in qualifying and in the build-up to the Euros has eroded confidence in the world champions.

Germany suffered away defeats to both Ireland and Poland in qualifying and threw away a two-goal lead to lose 3-2 at home to England in March.

An inexperienced side including several debutants lost to Slovakia last month before a full-strength side struggled to see off Hungary last Saturday.