Schlotterbeck optimistic of Germany chances at 2026 World Cup

Germany secured their place at the 2026 World Cup with a commanding 6-0 victory over Slovakia in Leipzig on Monday, finishing top of Group A in emphatic fashion and avenging an earlier 2-0 defeat to the same opponents.

Julian Nagelsmann’s side needed only to avoid defeat to confirm qualification, but they delivered a performance of ruthless efficiency.

Leroy Sané scored twice, while Nick Woltemade, Serge Gnabry, Ridle Baku, and 18-year-old debutant Assan Ouédraogo all found the net in a one-sided contest.

The result marked Germany’s 21st World Cup qualification, a feat surpassed only by Brazil.

Centre-back Nico Schlotterbeck, restored to the starting lineup after injury, was buoyant afterwards. 

Speaking to reporters, he insisted that if Germany replicate the level shown against Slovakia at the finals, they can achieve something significant in the United States, Canada and Mexico next summer. 

With key injured players expected to return and the team hitting form at the perfect time, optimism is growing within the camp.

Statistically, Germany were utterly dominant: 22 shots (10 on target), 4.0 expected goals, 47 touches in the Slovakian box compared to just six for the visitors, and 96 entries into the final third. 

The win extended their current unbeaten run in World Cup qualifying to five matches, their best streak since 202, and underlined a remarkable turnaround after a difficult start to the campaign.

Having overcome early setbacks and intense pressure, Nagelsmann’s revitalised side now head to the World Cup full of confidence, with Schlotterbeck and his teammates believing that, with a touch more luck and continued improvement, a deep run in 2026 is well within reach.

The Germans will be hoping to kickstart their World Cup campaign properly when the tournament kicks off, as they hope to go further than their last outing four years ago.