Germany stunned by Slovakia and pressured to win next World Cup qualifier
The German national team started the 2030 World Cup qualifiers with a setback. This Saturday (06), the four-time champions were beaten 2-0 by Slovakia, raising early concerns in Group A.
Missed chances and costly mistakes
Germany dominated possession and created more opportunities but failed to capitalize. Slovakia struck late in the first half and doubled the lead early in the second, punishing defensive lapses.
Although this was expected to be the Germans’ toughest group match, the result could impact the fight for first place, which guarantees direct qualification.
Group A standings after first round
- Slovakia – 3 points
- Northern Ireland – 3 points
- Germany – 0 points
- Luxembourg – 0 points
With five matches left, the group remains wide open. However, if Germany stumbles again, Slovakia could take a commanding lead—especially with a favorable clash against Luxembourg next.
Next game: a must-win for Germany
The Germans now face Northern Ireland on Sunday (07), at 3:45 p.m. (Brasília time), in their first home game of the qualifiers. Another slip-up could leave Julian Nagelsmann’s side under serious pressure in the race for a World Cup spot.
