There was a stretch not too long ago when Germany routinely entered major tournaments as the leading favourites to win. That aura has faded. Their most recent World Cup triumph dates back to 2014, and they haven’t lifted the European Championship trophy since 1996.
Although still regarded as a global powerhouse, Germany have stopped turning appearances into titles. The 2026 World Cup, however, represents a genuine chance to restore pride.
Their qualification campaign ended with a resounding 6-0 victory over Slovakia in Leipzig, but the convincing scoreline masked deeper issues. A group featuring Northern Ireland and Luxembourg should have posed few problems, yet Germany stumbled early. They suffered a defeat to Slovakia in their opening match before stringing together five wins in a row—performances that were often unconvincing.
Defensive lapses at set-pieces, difficulties generating steady attacking pressure, and vulnerability to fast counter-attacks have all raised concerns. Still, not everything points to impending disaster. Manager Julian Nagelsmann, under fire for certain selections—particularly the omission of Angelo Stiller and Tom Bischof—opted for Leroy Sané and Leon Goretzka against Slovakia. The pair validated his choices as Germany delivered their most complete display of the qualifiers.
Another bright spot came in the form of Newcastle striker Nick Woltemade, whose presence has added the clinical touch Germany have lacked in recent years. Work remains, but the team will travel to North America believing a title run is possible.
Wirtz’s form holds the key
Florian Wirtz has found life difficult at Liverpool since joining from Bayer Leverkusen last summer. Critics have targeted the 22-year-old, but Nagelsmann stepped in to shield him before the Slovakia match. He argued that Liverpool’s broader struggles have made the adaptation process tougher, adding that Wirtz needed time—just like many players adjusting to the Premier League.
Wirtz responded immediately with a standout performance against Slovakia, offering a glimpse of what Liverpool hoped they were getting. While some may dismiss the display due to the level of opposition, Slovakia have proven tricky for top nations—England, for instance, required two stoppage-time goals to edge past them at Euro 2024.
Wirtz’s difficulties in England appear linked to the faltering form of key teammates. Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk have not matched previous standards since signing new deals, while Liverpool’s other recruits have also struggled to impress. Yet Wirtz has taken the bulk of the criticism.
German outlet Bild even placed part of the blame on Salah, noting his lack of connection with the club’s expensive summer signings and describing him as a growing issue in Liverpool’s attacks. While that verdict may go too far, Wirtz’s excellence for Germany suggests he is far from the problem.
Germany’s prospects
Whatever unfolds at Liverpool, Wirtz’s influence on the national team could be decisive. If he maintains the level he showed against Slovakia, Germany will have every reason to believe they can compete for the World Cup in 2026.
