After Euro 2024 it was hoped this team would evolve and become a force for 2026. But that feels a long way off right now

Just seven minutes later in the 36th minute, Wirtz sent Leroy Sané in with a perfect ball and the winger capped the play off with a delectable finish to make it 3-0. Yes Virginia, the rout was on.

Germany kicked off their World Cup qualifying campaign with a hugely disappointing 2-0 defeat away in Slovakia – a result which marked their third straight competitive defeat. That loss in Bratislava raised serious concerns for Die Mannschaft, who have underperformed on the international stage for almost a decade.

The Germany midfielder played with confidence as he provided two excellent assists in the 6-0 win over Slovakia

The German national team was heavily criticized by the media and fans before the final match in the World Cup qualification against Slovakia – and it seems the Nagelsmann team has set out to

Prediction: Germany draws 1-1. Florian Wirtz will draw a penalty kick in the first half and Leroy Sané will earn the honor of sending Germany to the World Cup. Germany will sit back with possession for the rest of the match. Slovakia will add some late drama with a set piece goal in the 85th minute but it will be too little too late.

Germany have qualified for the 2026 World Cup by routing Slovakia 6-0 in Leipzig. Julian Nagelsmann's side needed to avoid a shock defeat at Red Bull Arena to guarantee top spot in Group A and their place at the World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico.

Germany booked their spot at the 2026 World Cup in style, as they overcame Slovakia by four goals to nil in Leipzig. Here are our German player ratings from the game: Germany starting XI player