Germany started the 2026 World Cup European qualifiers with a surprising 0-2 loss away to Slovakia.

The defeat underscores the struggles Germany have had in recent times. After making a small impression in the 2024/25 UEFA Nations League group stage, Julian Nagelsmann's side have run out of steam.

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Germany awaits a resounding victory over Luxembourg. Photo: Imago

In the semi-finals and third-place match of the 2024/25 Nations League, despite playing at home, Germany lost to Portugal and France respectively.

The difficulties were temporarily over when Germany beat Northern Ireland 3-1. However, it was not a convincing victory, as “Die Mannschaft” only decided the result in the second half.

Germany is currently ranked 3rd in Group A, a ranking that does not allow them to get a direct ticket to the 2026 World Cup . Only the top team will get a ticket straight to North America.

Early next week, Germany will visit Northern Ireland in Belfast. For Nagelsmann and his team, this will be a pivotal match, deciding the chance to compete for the top spot in Group A – currently held by Slovakia with 6 absolute points.

To prepare mentally, Germany needs a resounding victory against Luxembourg - considered a stepping stone opponent.

Luxembourg lost both of their last two games, conceding four goals. Not only did they get three points and score a lot of goals, but this was also an opportunity for Nagelsmann to continue experimenting with tactics and personnel.

Nagelsmann needs to find the optimal formula, in the context that Jamal Musiala and Kai Havertz cannot play, while Antonio Rudiger is also injured for a long time.

There are 17 German players in this training camp who have not yet reached the 10-match mark internationally – including 3 who have not even played once.

Nico Schlotterbeck 's return has bolstered Germany's defence, while Joshua Kimmich is the leader in midfield. Karim Adeyemi, after his impressive performances for Dortmund, is expected to bring a breath of fresh air to the attack.

In 13 meetings with Luxembourg, Germany have won 12 and lost just one (in friendlies), scoring 60 goals. Fans in Sinsheim – most of whom are Hoffenheim supporters – are looking forward to witnessing a feast of goals.

Force

Germany: F u llkrug, Kai Havertz, Leweling, Musiala, R u diger injured.

Luxembourg: Mica Pinto injured.

Expected lineup:

Germany (4-2-3-1): N u bel ; Anton, Tah, Koch , Raum ; Kimmich , Goretzka ; Gnabry, Wirtz , Adeyemi; Beier .

Luxembourg (5-4-1) : Moris ; Jans, Mahmutovic, Olesen, Carlson, Bohnert ; Sinani, O. Thill, Barreiro, Dardari ; Muratovic .

Match odds: Germany handicap 3

Goal ratio: 3 3/4

Prediction: Germany win 4-0 .

Source: https://vietnamnet.vn/nhan-dinh-bong-da-duc-vs-luxembourg-vong-loai-world-cup-2026-2451036.html