Germany booked their place at the 2026 World Cup with a commanding 6-0 win over Slovakia in Leipzig, a performance captain Joshua Kimmich said was meant to “send a message”.
The result ensured Julian Nagelsmann’s side finished top of Group A and qualified directly, while Slovakia dropped into the playoffs.
Nick Woltemade continued his remarkable form with the opener, scoring for the third consecutive game, before Serge Gnabry doubled the lead.
Florian Wirtz then set up two quick goals for Leroy Sane as Germany raced into a four-goal lead by half-time.
Ridle Baku and debutant Assan Ouedraogo added late strikes to complete a dominant evening that eased concerns after an unconvincing qualifying campaign. Germany’s win also secures a favourable seeding at next year’s tournament.
Nagelsmann praised the “incredible team spirit” on display, while Kimmich said the team understood the stakes after earlier struggles.
Injured stars including Kai Havertz, Jamal Musiala, Antonio Rudiger and Marc-Andre ter Stegen are expected to return before the World Cup.
