England vs Germany: 5 Key Tactical Battles That Could Decide The Game

3. Wayne Rooney vs Lars Bender

Bayer Leverkusen's Bender has already failed to shackle England talisman Rooney as a substitute in a Champions League meeting earlier this season. Coming on at 2-1 down the German did little to stop Manchester United from re-establishing a two-goal cushion. Rooney bagged a brace in that successful beginning to David Moyes's European debut in the Old Trafford dugout. His international form isn't too bad either with two in his last three caps. Lars also has brother Sven competing with him for the holding midfield berth up for grabs in the wake of Khedira's injury. The Bender twins must take full advantage of any opening they can get to break into the German first team on a regular basis. Low is well aware that Guardiola has often deployed Bayern and national skipper Lahm in a midfield anchor role. It could be a go to tactic for his country too if no others stake a claim for the spot. Marking Rooney remains an extremely difficult job. How far dare someone like Lars Bender follow him when the Lions forward drops deep in search of the ball? It's a tactical puzzle alright and one that Low needs to find an answer to.