Germany sealed their place at the 2026 World Cup with a dominant 6-0 win over Slovakia, and former captain Lothar Matthaus believes the team can challenge the likes of England, France and Portugal for the title despite a shaky qualifying campaign and recent tournament struggles. The 1990 World Cup winner insists there is no reason for fear if the team maintains the intensity shown in Monday's win.
Germany head coach Julian Nagelsmann was "really proud of the team" after they thumped Slovakia 6-0 in a must-win World Cup qualifying game on Monday. Nagelsmann gave full marks to every single player and praised them for working "like a maniac", as the result ensured Germany's direct passage to next year's World Cup in the United States of America, Canada and Mexico.
Germany needed only to avoid defeat to guarantee their 2026 World Cup spot when they faced Slovakia at the Red Bull Arena on Monday night. Following a sub-par campaign, which included a 2-0 loss in Slovakia back in September, Die Mannschaft booked their trip stateside in fine fashion as Julian Nagelsmann's side slaughtered the Falcons, easing to a 6-0 victory.