Germany Suffers Shock Defeat in World cup Qualifying Opener Against slovakia
Table of Contents
Bratislava, Slovakia – In a stunning upset, Germany fell 2-0 too Slovakia in their opening match of 2026 World cup qualification, marking a historic low for the national team. This is the first time Germany has lost a World Cup qualifier, a result that throws their qualifying campaign into immediate question.The defeat, played in Bratislava, saw Slovakia break a four-game winless streak (three losses and a draw) with a dominant performance.Goals from David Hancko just before halftime and David Strelec shortly after the break sealed the victory for the home side.
Strelec Shines as Germany Struggles
Slovakia took the lead in the 42nd minute through a well-worked move finished by defender David Hancko. Hancko, venturing forward, completed a neat one-two with David Strelec before slotting the ball past the German goalkeeper. The goal exposed critically important defensive frailties from the visitors, with captain Joshua Kimmich, Jonathan Tah, and Antonio Rüdiger all criticized for their passive defending.
Strelec then doubled Slovakia’s advantage in the 57th minute with a stunning individual effort. The 24-year-old striker skillfully evaded the challenge of Rüdiger before curling a lovely shot into the corner of the net – a goal that effectively ended the contest. Strelec had recently impressed in europa League qualifying with Slovan Bratislava, scoring and assisting against Young Boys.
Lackluster German Performance
Germany struggled to impose themselves throughout the match, rarely threatening the Slovakian goal. Despite opportunities for Maximilian Mittelstädt,Florian Wirtz,and Leon Goretzka,veteran goalkeeper Martin Dubravka proved equal to the task,denying each attempt.
The German attack lacked creativity and penetration, and the team as a whole appeared disjointed and lacking in intensity. Coach Julian Nagelsmann
