Slovakia vs Germany

Slovakia delivered a historic performance in Bratislava, defeating Germany 2–0 in their opening 2026 World Cup qualifier and handing the four-time world champions their first ever away loss in qualifying history. From the start, Slovakia played with confidence and energy, pressing high and refusing to be intimidated by their more illustrious opponents. The home crowd roared with every tackle, setting the tone for what would become a famous night in Slovak football.

Germany struggled to find rhythm in the first half, with misplaced passes and a lack of urgency allowing Slovakia to grow into the game. The breakthrough came three minutes before halftime when Dávid Hancko finished off a slick counterattack, calmly sliding the ball past Marc-André ter Stegen. The goal was met with a deafening cheer, as Slovakia went into the break deservedly ahead and full of belief.

Julian Nagelsmann’s side tried to rally after the restart, but Slovakia’s defense stood firm and their transitions remained dangerous. In the 55th minute, David Strelec doubled the lead with a brilliant solo effort, drifting past Antonio Rüdiger and curling an unstoppable shot into the top corner. It was a moment of individual brilliance that left Germany shell-shocked and staring at a mountain to climb.

Germany threw on fresh legs, including Leon Goretzka and Florian Wirtz, but the response never came. Slovakia’s midfield worked tirelessly to close down spaces, and goalkeeper Martin Dúbravka made key interventions to preserve the clean sheet. The match ended with the hosts in total control and Germany looking flat and frustrated, unable to register a single shot on target in the final 20 minutes.

This result shakes up Group A dramatically, putting Slovakia in a strong early position while leaving Germany under pressure heading into their next match against Northern Ireland. Nagelsmann admitted afterward that his team lacked “emotional intensity” and would need a serious response if they hope to recover quickly. For Slovakia, this win will be remembered as one of their most significant in recent history — a night where belief, discipline, and clinical finishing toppled one of Europe’s footballing giants.

Watch and Download Slovakia vs Germany full match replay and highlights, At Thursday, September 04, 2025. The match played at Národny Futbalovy Stadión, in World Cup Qualifying.

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