On the pitch, the once-formidable German team now found itself in a state of disarray at the Tehne Stadium in Slovakia.
In the 42nd minute, Strelec assisted Hanczko’s goal, giving Slovakia the lead. In the 55th minute of the second half, Strelec once again demonstrated his individual prowess, tackling Rudiger with a left-footed shot.
The 0-2 scoreline not only marked a defeat, but also ended Germany’s 52-match unbeaten away streak in World Cup qualifiers. This marked the first time in history that Germany had lost in their opening match of the European qualifiers.
A historic defeat
This wasn’t the first time Germany had faced Slovakia, but in the previous 11 meetings, Germany had won 8 and lost 3. All three of those losses came in friendly matches, and they had never lost to Slovakia in a competitive match.
This match set several embarrassing records. This marked the first time in German history that they lost their opening World Cup qualifying match, and also their first defeat to Slovakia in an official match.
This also ended Germany’s 52-match unbeaten away streak in the tournament. In their previous 48 away qualifying matches, Germany had an impressive record of 37 wins and 10 draws.
Key Moments of the Match
The white German jerseys and the blue Slovakia jerseys gradually intertwined, and the intense match began. Germany faltered in the first half, struggling to find their form. Although both Sauer and Mittelstadt created chances, both were saved by Slovakia goalkeeper Dubravka.
In the 42nd minute, Slovakia’s Hanczko exploited a gap in the German defense, receiving a through ball from Strek and swishing a shot into the net to give Slovakia its first goal. Slovakia led 1-0. Early in the second half, Goretzka created a good attacking opportunity.
But in the 55th minute, Strelec broke through the defense again, single-handedly challenging Rudiger and scoring with a left-footed shot. Slovakia extended their lead to 2-0.
Analysis of Germany’s Performance
Germany’s frontcourt duo of Wirtz and Waltermade were virtually invisible. Wirtz lost possession 21 times, succeeded only once in five dribbling attempts, and succeeded only three times in 11 physical duels.
Germany’s first goal conceded was a mistake by Wirtz. Waltermade’s performance was equally poor, with two of his three shots off target and one blocked, posing no threat.
Although Germany dominated possession throughout the match, their offensive efficiency was far inferior to their opponents. Gnabry’s misplaced passes and self-inflicted fouls were frequent problems.
Slovakia’s Victory
Slovakia’s recent form has been poor, with four wins, three draws, and three losses in their last ten games. Their win rate is just over 40%, and their average goals per game is only 1.1.
They had lost their last two international matches, first a 0-1 loss to Israel and then a 1-4 defeat to Greece. However, they displayed remarkable efficiency in this match.
They defended solidly, counterattacked fiercely, and capitalized on limited opportunities to score against Germany. Strelec scored with an assist and a goal, becoming the game’s star player.
Nagelsmann’s Dilemma
Including this loss, Germany has suffered three consecutive defeats in official matches. Previously, they had lost two consecutive matches in the UEFA Nations League finals, losing 2-1 to Portugal and 2-0 to France.
This defeat put coach Nagelsmann under immense pressure. On social media, fans have already called for Nagelsmann’s dismissal.
Although Germany earned a spot in the European Qualifiers playoffs in the UEFA Nations League finals, this performance was unlikely to satisfy fans.
Summary
Slovakia goalkeeper Dubravka made numerous saves, defending against German attacks. Strelec’s assist and goal sealed the victory, becoming the center of attention.
Germany will next return home to face Northern Ireland. Northern Ireland defeated Luxembourg 3-1 in the first round.
With only 280 days remaining until the FIFA World Cup in Mexico City, Germany needs to regain their form quickly, otherwise their path to the tournament will be fraught with challenges. Find cheap soccer jerseys here, buy one now to support your favorite team!
