Germany general manager: 'Up against the wall' against Paraguay

Germany have their backs against the wall as they enter the World Cup last-32 match against Paraguay, but German Football Federation (DFB) managing director Andreas Rettig hopes the team react like they did in qualifying.

Germany lost their opening qualifier 2-0 in Slovakia, and, needing a win in the reverse fixture to avoid the play-offs, they responded in style with a 6-0 triumph.

Rettig told MagentaTV he expects a similar reaction on Monday against Paraguay after Thursday's 2-1 defeat against another South American team, Ecuador, in their final group match.

“We know we’re now up against the wall in the knockout stages," he said.

"We’ve been in this situation before against Slovakia. The pressure was high then too. On Monday, we’ll see the Slovakia side of the team, not the Ecuador side.”

Rettig said the defeat against Ecuador was deserved and there was "no point sugar-coating it."

He also defended coach Julian Nagelsmann from criticism and rather praised him for backing the players.

“I have to smile at the fact that some people were surprised after the match at how Julian Nagelsmann defended his players. That’s what I expect from a coach,” Rettig said.