Earthquake: Slovakia defeats Germany in 2026 World Cup qualifiers

(NLDO) – The German team suffered a crushing 0-2 defeat on Slovakia's field in the opening match of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, shocking public opinion.

Coach Julian Nagelsmann himself had to bitterly admit after the match: "I clearly felt that the German team today was completely outclassed emotionally and mentally compared to their opponents. A team that played with more desire and will would have won, and Slovakia did that."

Newcomer Nnamdi Collins (13) faces off against the Slovakian defence

Shock for a Germany team on the way back

It is not an exaggeration to call the victory at Narodny Futbalovy an "earthquake" when Slovakia has made a lot of progress recently. However, defeating Germany is always not a simple thing for any European team, especially in an official match, in the framework of the World Cup qualifiers.

Slovakia also proved effective with their counter-attacking style of play.

Taking advantage of home field advantage, disciplined and sharp play, Slovakia created a historic victory on the opening day. After the opening whistle, the German team entered the match with high determination, actively controlling the ball and pressuring the opponent. However, Slovakia's tight play and fast counter-attacks made the white shirt defense falter many times.

David Hancko opened the scoring for Slovakia

In the 42nd minute, David Hancko had a good combination with David Strelec, received the ball in the penalty area and fired a neat shot to open the score for the home team. This goal turned the game around, the Bratislava audience exploded with joy.

Germany continues to be deadlocked

In the second half, instead of rising strongly, Germany continued to show signs of being stuck. In the 55th minute, striker David Strelec skillfully dribbled past defender Antonio Rüdiger before finishing beautifully, defeating goalkeeper Oliver Baumann to increase the score to 2-0.

David Strelec doubled the lead for the home team

Germany team disbanded

The second goal really put coach Julian Nagelsmann and his team in crisis. A series of personnel adjustments but the lack of sharpness in the front line and gaps in the defense made the German team unable to find a way into Slovakia's goal.

Germany lost away for the first time in World Cup qualifying

The 2-0 defeat not only shocked German fans but also raised concerns about the erratic form of the four-time World Cup champions. Coach Nagelsmann admitted that his team lacked emotion and desire, which is crucial in a tough qualifying campaign. Meanwhile, Slovakia enjoyed a historic victory, temporarily leading Group A with 3 full points.

Slovakia wins historic victory

The shock of Bratislava shows that European World Cup qualifying is never short of surprises. For Germany, the road ahead will not be easy if they do not quickly regain their image as a leading candidate for the world championship.

Source: https://nld.com.vn/dia-chan-slovakia-quat-nga-tuyen-duc-o-vong-loai-world-cup-196250905063533527.htm