After succumbing to a shocking 1-0 loss against Mexico last time out, Germany went into their game against Sweden knowing that they would have to win in a bid to have a clear shot of going through to the Round of 16.
Sweden came into the tie with a mission, to prevent Germany from winning, as their manager Janne Andersson set them up to park the bus from the game's onset, thus giving Germany most of the ball, but limiting the space with which they can launch attacks.
The game started with Germany looking to get an early goal due to the nature of Sweden's tactics, but they were denied multiple times by Sweden's backline.
Sweden somewhat unexpectedly bagged the game's opening goal in the 32nd minute courtesy of Ola Toivonen who capitalised on Viktor Claesson's pass.
The remainder of the first half was dominated by Germany who continued to retain possession and work their way into Sweden's 18-yard-area whilst also relying on crosses from Joshua Kimmich and Jonas Hector.
Having ended the first 45 minutes without a goal Joachim Low's side increased their attacking options by bringing in veteran striker Mario Gomez for PSG man Julian Draxler in a bid to have more goalscoring options on the pitch.
Germany got things underway pretty quickly as they found the back of the net in the 48th minute thanks to Dortmund star Marco Reus.
Andreas Granqvist then went on to put up an excellent defensive display, often leading the backline to make key blocks and prevent Germany from going in front.
Germany's breakthrough came through a stroke of genius from Toni Kroos who scored a stunning free-kick to give Germany their first three points at the 2018 World Cup finals.
WORLD CUP - GROUP F
Germany - 2 (Reus 48', Kroos 90+5')
Sweden - 1 (Toivonen 32')
Fisht Stadium, Sochi
