Updated by Faith Barbara N Ruhinda at 1202 EAT on Tuesday 18 November 2025.

Four-time World Cup champions Germany secured their place at the 2026 tournament with a commanding 6–0 victory over Slovakia on Monday.

The qualification marks Germany’s 21st World Cup appearance. The only editions the team has missed were the inaugural 1930 tournament, which it chose not to enter, and the 1950 World Cup, from which it was barred in the aftermath of World War II.

European rivals the Netherlands also booked their place at the 2026 World Cup on Monday, completing an unbeaten qualifying campaign with a 4–0 victory over Lithuania.

Germany’s path was markedly more dramatic. After opening Group A with a defeat to Slovakia—their third loss ever in World Cup qualifying—the four-time champions rebounded with five straight wins. They needed only a draw on Monday to secure qualification but removed all doubt with a four-goal first half that put the match, and their World Cup berth, beyond reach.

Germany last lifted the World Cup in 2014 but have failed to progress beyond the group stage in the two tournaments since. The Netherlands, meanwhile, continue their pursuit of a maiden World Cup title after finishing as runners-up three times.

Slovakia and Poland will now advance to the playoffs, with the draw scheduled for Thursday.

This reporting includes information first published by Al Jazeera.

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