The past couple of major tournaments has seen Germany falter. However, they look to prepare for another one in the Middle East.

However, Rudiger has revealed he expected his side to meet expectations and display excellent performance in Qatar.

The Real Madrid man has sounded a note of warning, insisting his side isn’t a side to look down on, saying no one can rule them [Germany] out

The Germans lifted the prestigious World cup back in 2014. Still, they failed to defend it successfully four years later in Russia as they bowed out in the group phase with defeats against the Mexicans and South Koreans, respectively.

The abysmal performance followed yet again at Euros 2020 as Joachim Low led the side was dumped out of the competition by England at the round of 16 before ex-Bayern manager Hans Flick took over at the helm of affairs.

With Flick completely controlling the national team, Rudiger believes his country has all it takes to shock other opposing nations.

The 29-year-old also reiterated that Germany must become solid as a unit to help shut out opposition attacks. The Defender cited an instance of the 2-0 lead thrown away to the three lions in the UEFA Nations League that ended in a 3-3 draw.

“There is this feeling or belief that many people will not give us a chance to progress far. But I believe we have what it takes to compete at the highest level, especially here in Qatar.” 

We will do our best and improve our backline to avoid any errors which must have caused us in previous times,” he added.

Germany opened their 2022 World Cup account on Wednesday when they take on Japan in Group B, which also consists of Costa Rica and Spain.

Akinnifesi Olumide