Germany moved very close to qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup after a 2–0 win against Luxembourg. In another Group A match, Slovakia defeated Northern Ireland with a late goal, keeping the group very competitive.
Germany vs Luxembourg
Germany won 2–0 in Luxembourg.
Both goals were scored by Nick Woltemade in the 49th minute and 69th minute.
The first half was difficult for Germany. They made some mistakes, and Luxembourg created pressure, but German goalkeeper Oliver Baumann made important saves.
In the second half, Germany played faster and stronger.
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The first goal came after Leroy Sané made a good pass into the box.
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The second goal came from another smart move that Woltemade finished calmly.
With this win, Germany now has 12 points and needs only a draw in their final match to qualify directly for the World Cup.
Slovakia vs Northern Ireland
Slovakia won 1–0 against Northern Ireland with a 91st-minute goal scored by Tomáš Bobček, who had just entered the match.
Slovakia had two goals cancelled earlier, one for offside and one for handball. They continued to push and finally scored in stoppage time.
Northern Ireland cannot qualify directly anymore but will go to the playoffs through their Nations League ranking.
Group Situation
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Germany: Needs only 1 point in the last match to qualify.
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Slovakia: Must win against Germany to finish first in the group.
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Northern Ireland: Will play in the playoffs.
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Luxembourg: Stay at the bottom.
The final match between Germany and Slovakia will decide who qualifies directly.