World Cup 2018: Holders Germany beaten by Mexico in opening match in Russia

World Cup holders Germany were dealt a huge blow

in their bid to defend the title after suffering a shock

defeat to Mexico in their opening match.

Winger Hirving Lozano struck a low shot past German keeper Manuel Neuer

in the 35th minute to give Mexico a surprise 1-0 win

over the defending champions.

Germany now play South Korea and Sweden in their remaining group

games but face an uphill task to reach the knock-out stages.

Joachim Low's team won the World Cup four years ago in Brazil

and were considered one of the favourites to win this year's competition in Russia.

They had a number of chances against Mexico but failed to convert any of them.

Joshua Kimmich tried his luck with an overhead kick,

Julian Draxler saw a shot deflect over and substitute Marco

Reus flashed a volley wide from a tight angle.

Toni Kroos tried his luck with a curling shot from outside

the box as Germany grew increasingly desperate before another

substitute, Julian Brandt, cracked a fierce 20-yard shot that

hit the outside of the left post.

Mexico had a penalty appeal waved away when striker Javier

Hernandez went down under a challenge from defender

Mats Hummels, with the referee opting not to consult VAR.

Germany's defeat has raised questions about the decision to

leave Manchester City winger Leroy Sane out of the squad

following his tremendous season with the Premier League champions.

Spain in 2010 are the only team to lose their opening game and go on to win the World Cup.

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