Germany and Netherlands Secure World Cup Berths After Dominating Qualifying Matches
Germany and the Netherlands have both secured their places at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico after decisive victories in their final qualifying matches. Both teams finished atop their respective groups, ensuring their participation in the global tournament.
Germany, after a shaky start to their qualifying campaign, finished strong with a resounding 6-0 victory over Slovakia. The dominant performance took place in Leipzig and sealed their recovery from an earlier 2-0 defeat to Slovakia. Germany's goals came from Nick Woltemade, Serge Gnabry, a brace from Leroy Sané, Ridle Baku, and Assan Ouédraogo. Ouédraogo, a 19-year-old midfielder, marked his senior international debut with a goal. Germany's qualification marks their 21st appearance in 23 editions of the World Cup, a testament to their consistent presence on the world stage. They were absent from the inaugural 1930 World Cup and were barred from participating in 1950.
The Netherlands also secured their qualification in style, with a 4-0 victory over Lithuania. The goals were scored by Reijnders, Cody Gakpo, Xavi Simons and Malen. The Dutch finished their qualifying campaign undefeated, topping their group ahead of Poland. This result ensures the Netherlands will avoid the play-offs.
With this qualification, the Netherlands will be aiming to win their first ever World Cup trophy. The team is counting on their talented squad, which features Virgil van Dijk, Matthijs de Ligt, Frenkie de Jong, Tijjani Reijnders and Cody Gakpo. The Netherlands have been runners-up three times, in 1974, 1978 and 2010, and are hoping to finally break through and claim the title.
Germany and the Netherlands join England, France, Portugal, Croatia, and Norway as the European teams that have so far qualified for the 2026 World Cup. The remaining spots will be determined in the upcoming matches.
Slovakia and Poland, who finished second in their respective groups, will now head to the play-offs to compete for a chance to qualify for the World Cup. The draw for the play-offs is scheduled for Thursday.
