Slovakia Stun Germany 2-0 in Historic World Cup Qualifier Upset

Germany suffered a shock 2-0 defeat to Slovakia in their opening 2026 World Cup qualifier in Bratislava on Thursday — their first-ever away loss in a World Cup qualifier.

Ranked 52nd in the world, Slovakia consistently troubled their more illustrious opponents and broke the deadlock in the 42nd minute when David Hancko scored after Slovakia regained possession in midfield.

The hosts doubled their advantage in the 55th minute, with David Strelec cutting in from the right and firing past a static Antonio Rüdiger.

Germany, disjointed in defence and toothless in attack, looked a shadow of themselves, falling to Slovakia in a competitive fixture for the first time. The result marks Germany’s fourth-ever World Cup qualifying defeat, following losses to Portugal (1985), England (2001), and North Macedonia (2021).

The setback increases pressure on coach Julian Nagelsmann, who had spoken confidently before the match about his “healthy desire to win the World Cup.” Germany, four-time world champions, have been eliminated at the group stage in the past two editions of the tournament.

Already without injured forwards Kai Havertz, Jamal Musiala, and Tim Kleindienst, the team suffered another blow when starting striker Niclas Füllkrug withdrew before kickoff with a calf injury. His place was taken by Nick Woltemade, recently signed by Newcastle United.

Slovakia exploited Germany’s weaknesses in the first half, with Leo Sauer repeatedly finding space behind the sluggish German defence. Just before the break, Hancko struck after combining with Strelec, evading Rüdiger before finishing past Oliver Baumann.

Germany had a golden chance to equalise moments after halftime, but Leon Goretzka shot straight at goalkeeper Martin Dubravka in a one-on-one situation. Slovakia then seized control again, with Strelec weaving through the defence and blasting in the second goal ten minutes later.

Despite dominating possession, Germany created little in attack and will need a swift response when they face Northern Ireland at home in Cologne on Sunday.