Worst case scenario for Germany

The 0-2 defeat to Slovakia dealt a painful blow to the German team's ambitions, but the door to the 2026 World Cup is not closed for coach Julian Nagelsmann and his students.

The shock defeat to Slovakia shook the confidence of the German team.

In the early morning of September 4, the German team unexpectedly lost in the opening match of the 2026 World Cup qualifying round in Europe. This defeat put the German team in a situation where they had to win all remaining matches to secure a direct ticket to the 2026 World Cup.

To secure a direct place in the 2026 World Cup, "Die Mannschaft" need to top Group A. The return leg against Slovakia at home in Leipzig on November 17 will be decisive. A win by at least three goals will give Germany the advantage of a direct match against Slovakia, to compete for the top spot.

However, before the rematch against Slovakia, Germany must also beat Northern Ireland and Luxembourg, two much weaker opponents. If the scenario of topping Group A does not come true, the road to the World Cup is not yet closed for Germany. A second place in the group will put Germany in the play-off round, where 16 other European teams will fight for the four tickets to the biggest football festival on the planet.

Even if Germany finishes third or fourth in their group, they will still have a place in the play-offs, thanks to their Nations League group win. However, reaching the 2026 World Cup play-offs is risky, especially when Germany are not in good form.

Source: https://znews.vn/kich-ban-te-nhat-voi-tuyen-duc-post1582840.html