Germany and Netherlands Secure Convincing Wins, Qualify for 2026 World Cup

The German national football team secured a spot in the 2026 World Cup on Monday after thrashing Slovakia 6-0 in their final qualifying match, overwhelming their opponent with four goals in the first half and consigning them to the playoff round in March.

The four-time world champions, who were eliminated in the first round of the last two World Cup editions, won their group with 15 points, followed by Slovakia with 12.

Germany, who needed a draw or a victory to secure first place, left nothing to chance and took control of the match from the outset.

Nick Woltemade put his team ahead in the 18th minute with his fourth consecutive goal in the last three matches. Serge Gnabry extended the lead in the 29th minute, while Leroy Sané sealed the victory with a brace in the 36th and 41st minutes.

Meanwhile, the Netherlands, three-time world cup runners-up, secured their passage to next year's tournament by thrashing Lithuania 4-0, comfortably finishing at the top of their group.

The scoreline could have been even more significant, such was the Dutch dominance, but the result ensured they finished three points ahead of second-placed Poland.

Tijjani Reijnders made it 1-0 before halftime for the hosts, who sealed the rout in the second half with goals from Cody Gakpo, Xavi Simons, and Donyell Malen.

The undefeated Netherlands won Group G with 20 points, while Poland finished with 17 after defeating Malta 3-2 away in another of Monday's matches.