Brazil's Olympians to get off to perfect start
After witnessing the women's team thrash China on Wednesday at the Tokyo Olympics, the men's team will be similarly raring to go, but will face a more resolute looking Germany outfit as the two favourites to qualify from their group face off first. Read our preview here:
Richie Rich
Taking centre stage in Japan will be Everton forward Richarlison, and new Toffees boss Rafa Benítez might have to wait for at least several weeks to see him turn out for his club. He will lead the line in a 4-3-3 that will also include overage stars such as Dani Alves in a move that will maximise the experience and know-how on display. U23s head coach Andre Jardine will seek to support Richarlison by utilising any two from four in the wider spaces to then cut inside.
Kruse control
Stefan Kuntz will have Max Kruse at his disposal, and the wily veteran will be seeking to bring his Bundesliga 2020/2021 form eastwards with him - the Union Berlin hitman grabbed 11 goals in the second ever season in the top tier for Die Eisernen. Attacking midfielder Nadiem Amiri will be supplying the ammunition, and RB Leipzig full-back Benjamin Heinrichs will be aiming in balls from the right with verve and accuracy.
Yellow into gold?
Germany were only able to have a single warm-up friendly in situ to prepare for the tournament, and Hertha's Jordan Torunarigha suffered racist abuse in that clash with Honduras, causing his teammates to walk off the pitch in solidarity. Unfortunately, that will also have the effect of Die Mannschaft being on the back foot, and Brazil at odds of 2.00 with betway to win appears to be a savvy punt.
