Head coach Hansi Flick says Germany's World Cup clash with Spain is a "first final" as they try to avoid another early exit at a major tournament.
A group-stage elimination in 2018 was Germany's earliest for 80 years and they reached the last 16 at Euro 2020.
After shock 2-1 defeat to Japan in their opening game, another loss to Spain could end Germany's hopes of progressing in Qatar.
"The last two tournaments were not [good]," Flick said.
He added: "We want to avoid a repeat of this. The focus is on concentration. This is the first final for us at the World Cup and that's what it's about - to avoid a repeat of that."
Spain come into the match aiming to book a place in the knockout stage after a 7-0 thrashing of Costa Rica in their opener.
Head coach Luis Enrique, however, expects a tough game against the under-pressure Germans.
"Without a doubt, they are the team that is most similar to Spain in terms of dominating the play and controlling it," he said.
"That is a beautiful challenge for us. I think it will be an open game."
TEAM NEWS
Luis Enrique has hinted at making changes despite Spain's 7-0 win against Costa Rica.
Germany will monitor winger Leroy Sane, who has been sidelined with a knee problem.
Niklas Sule, normally a central defender, struggled at right-back against Japan and could be replaced by Thilo Kehrer or Lukas Klostermann.
Flick could also shift Joshua Kimmich to right-back and change his midfield.
If Japan avoid defeat against Costa Rica in Sunday's first game, then Germany would be out with another loss. Spain will go through if they win and Costa Rica are beaten.
Source: BBC