Germany advances to the World Cup, bypassing Slovakia's poorly-executed campaign
Germany's national football team is gearing up for an exciting journey in the qualifying rounds for the 2026 World Cup. Regardless of the outcome in the qualifying group, Germany will participate in the playoff games scheduled for March.
The team, under the guidance of coach Julian Nagelsmann, is aiming high, and scoring many goals in the upcoming matches against Northern Ireland and Luxembourg could significantly improve Germany's goal difference. This could be crucial, as in the event of a tie in points between teams, the better goal difference will determine the group winner.
The team suffered a setback in their qualifying campaign with a 0:2 defeat in Slovakia. However, the decisive match for direct qualification to the 2026 World Cup between Germany and Slovakia will take place on November 17, 2025, with kickoff at 20:45. The return match could potentially decide first place in Group A.
If Germany finishes as group winners, they will be in Pot 1 or 2 for the World Cup draw. In the worst-case scenario, Germany can qualify for the World Cup by finishing as runners-up in Group A. If Germany advances from the playoffs, they would only be a placeholder for a playoff winner at the World Cup draw.
It's worth noting that Germany has never missed a World Cup through sporting means. As one of the four group winners of League A in the UEFA competition, Germany has already secured a place in the playoffs. If Germany wins all their remaining games, they will secure first place in Group A and a direct World Cup ticket.
Meanwhile, outside the football field, life in Hamm continues. Thousands participated in the 16th AOK Corporate Run in Hamm, and millions are being spent on the Easter expansion of the Maxipark in Hamm. A 35-year-old was also arrested after a break-in in Hamm.
The World Cup draw will take place following the playoff rounds. Germany may face tough World Cup group opponents, depending on the outcome of the playoff rounds. Regardless of the challenges ahead, the German National Team is determined to secure a place in the 2026 World Cup and bring glory to their fans.
