Five things we learned: Germany 2-1 Sweden
Jogi Low will leave out his regulars, problems in defence and Sweden need a miracle; five things we learned as Germany secure a late comeback victory.
JOGI LOW WILLING TO DITCH HIS FAVOURITES
Changes were expected for Germany in their second group stage game, after they suffered a 1-0 defeat to Mexico in the first.
What wasn't quite as expected was the number and the names of the changes: Mats Hummels and Mesut Ozil left out among four changes, as Jogi Low showed a ruthless streak.
The meaning was clear: this was a must-win game and a reaction was required.
And Low got the result he wanted - just about.
PROBLEMS REMAIN IN DEFENCE FOR GERMANY
Two of the back four were changed by Germany for this match, but Sweden still found the route to goal disturbingly easy, despite having a minority of possession.
Too often the gap between centre-backs and full-backs was enormous, while Jerome Boateng more than once struggled against the physicality of Sweden's front two.
That got even worse in the last 10 minutes, as Boateng was sent-off, meaning at least one change for the next game again.
Still work to do for the manager and his players if they are to protect goalkeeper Manuel Neuer better in future matches during their World Cup run.
MARIO GOMEZ CAN STILL IMPACT
The veteran striker doesn't have as big a role to play for Germany any more, but Mario Gomez still showed he can offer his national side a different route to goal when needed.
His team-mates were far more inclined to put early crosses into the area in the second half once he was on, and the first of those led to the equaliser.
In fact, Gomez's first touch was to register an assist, getting a touch on toward Reus who finished off the move.
Timo Werner might be the starter, but Gomez can play a vital role for Germany off the bench.
SWEDEN STILL NEED ANOTHER BIG PERFORMANCE
A win would have taken Sweden through along with Mexico, and knocked out Germany in the process, but instead they face an uphill battle.
They'll now no doubt need to win against Mexico in the next match, as Germany will surely take three points against bottom side Korea Republic, taking them to six points.
Sweden have battled extremely hard across both their opening fixtures, there is still a long way to go and the odds swung against them dramatically in the final moments in Sochi.
LATE GOALS HAVING A HUGE SAY ON THE GROUPS
Goals in the dying moments of matches have been prevalent throughout the group stage, with the likes of England, Brazil and even Sweden, in their opener, taking victories late on.
That continues to be the case, and perhaps Sweden should have known there would be one final flurry from Germany, a side noted as having an iron will to win and who always, always find a way.
Toni Kroos' goal came deep into stoppage time and has put Germany firmly back in the driving seat for a last 16 place.