Germany defender Shkodran Mustafi has praised Mexico’s team spirit ahead of Thursday’s Confederations Cup semi-final.

The pair are due to meet at Sochi’s Fisht Stadium with the victor going on to face either Portugal or Chile in Sunday’s final.

Despite leaving a number of their stars at home, Die Mannschaft boss Joachim Low still has plenty of talent at his disposal and appears to be using the event to tinker with his formation.

While the Germans still have a host of recognisable names, Mexico’s squad is less highly-rated and despite themselves enjoying a few moments of magic, their success has been mainly built around a collective effort.

Germany are 1.95 to win in Sochi, with the draw priced at 3.60, as are the Mexicans.

Mustafi is likely to be at the heart of the world champions’ defence for the match and will be keen to prove himself, as he aims to earn a World Cup spot ahead of next year’s return tournament in Russia.

The Arsenal defender is expecting a tricky test on Thursday, admitting that breaking down Mexico’s resolve and team spirit will be the key to his side booking their place in Sunday’s final.

Mustafi is quoted as saying by Goal: “Mexico are a team who don’t have that superstar, they are a team who plays good together with a lot of experience.

“You must be sure that they will play as a team and be aggressive because of that – because they don’t have a superstar. “They play for each other and I think that makes them so strong.”