Germany shocked by Slovakia with third loss in row as World Cup path begins

After falling to hosts Slovakia in their opening World Cup qualifier, four-time world champions Germany suffered their first away defeat.

The Germans have lost their final three matches in a row to Portugal and France in the Nations League in June, and they have never lost a World Cup qualifier on the road.

“Our game today demonstrated no emotionality.” After Thursday’s defeat, Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann said, “The opponents were way ahead of us emotionally”. We want to attend the World Cup, but we were miles from that, according to the statement.

I’d like to witness that emotion. We chose the best German players, but perhaps we should place more value on quality over quantity in our selection of talent.

Since winning the World Cup in 2014, the Germans haven’t had an impact on major international competitions.

The Slovaks lacked a golden chance in the opening minutes thanks to Lubomir Satka, and Nagelsmann’s team was on the wrong foot. In their first-ever one-on-one, Oliver Baumann denied Leo Sauer by making a superb save in the 21st minute, prompting early warnings that the visitors did not take.

The hosts broke quickly in the 42nd when Germany’s Florian Wirtz lost possession, and David Hanchko, who had a fine finish, completed the offensive play with a fine finish.

After the break, Leon Goretzka, who had been toothless in the first half, showed more aggression. Slovakia struck back in the 55th minute, but Strelec sent Antonio Rudiger the wrong way before curling a shot past Baumann.

The second half’s first five minutes were slightly brighter, but the rest was grim, according to Gelsmann.

I believe in my team, but they need to realize that having a better player than their opponents won’t suffice without showing up. With the handbrake on, you won’t get any results.

Without any ideas and a lot of momentum, the Germans, who were knocked out in the first round of the previous two World Cups, were unable to make a serious comeback.