Germany midfielder Sebastian Rudy has been ruled out of his side's final World Cup group game against South Korea after suffering multiple fractures to his nose.
The 28-year-old was forced to leave the pitch during Die Mannschaft's 2-1 win over Sweden after taking a boot to his face in the first half.
On Tuesday, Germany coach Joachim Low revealed that Rudy had not yet recovered after undergoing surgery and will therefore not be available for Wednesday's crunch clash in Kazan.
Low added that the prospect of the Bayern Munich man playing with a protective mask is not possible as "it is two or three days too early" in terms of the player's recovery.
Germany, who are also missing the suspended Jerome Boateng, are guaranteed to qualify for the last 16 if they beat the Taeguk Warriors on Wednesday by at least two goals.
