"Germany made a losing start to their 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign, as they were beaten 2-0 by Slovakia in Bratislava. Goals from David Hancko and David Strelec settled the Group A clash in favour of the hosts at Stadion Tehelne pole. Slovakia went close to breaking the deadlock midway through the first half with Oliver Baumann denying Leo Sauer. At the other end, Martin Dubravka thwarted Maximilian Mittelstadt, while new Newcastle United forward Nick Woltemade headed over from close range."
"It was Francesco Calzona's side who struck the opening goal three minutes before half-time, as Strelec drilled a return ball across the area for Hancko - who had continued his run after driving across halfway - to sweep home a neat first-time finish. Germany sought a response early in the second half with Leon Goretzka calling Dubravka into action. Yet, they fell further behind in the 55th minute when Norbert Gyomber helped a high ball onto Strelec,"
Slovakia beat Germany 2-0 in Bratislava, with David Hancko scoring three minutes before half-time and David Strelec adding a second in the 55th minute. Slovakia produced early threats, with Oliver Baumann denying Leo Sauer and Martin Dubravka making several key saves. Germany created chances through Maximilian Mittelstadt, Nick Woltemade and Leon Goretzka but failed to convert. Strelec drilled a return ball for Hancko's opener and later finished after Norbert Gyomber helped a high ball onto him. The defeat is Germany's third successive competitive loss and only their second World Cup qualifying loss by more than one goal.
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