Mandatory task 1 completed. A DFB victory in Luxembourg. But that one Cramp victory (2:0) against world number 97 has German football worried. Can we also play against Slovakia on Monday (20:45, here Live ticker) get the necessary points enough for direct qualification to the World Cup? The memories of the 0-2 defeat in Bratislava are still too fresh. What if we lose again on Monday?
What if national coach Julian Nagelsmann’s team stumbles again and only finishes second in the group? Then we had to endure a holdout in the play-offs in March.
There, 16 teams competed for the last four European tickets. Modes: 4 mini tournaments with semi-finals and finals. Each winner goes to the World Cup. Also on hand: twelve group runners-up and the top four group winners from the Nations League.
The first duel will definitely be a home game German will be placed in the pot of the four best teams due to their placement in the world rankings. Then against one of the four Nations League group winners who have not yet qualified. Sweden, Romania or Northern Ireland – for now – would be candidates.
However, home advantage will be taken for the next final if they win. Germany would then have to play Poland or the Czech Republic to get a World Cup ticket, for example.
However, the calculation for the Slovak game is actually quite simple: don’t lose. But should that be the demand of a DFB team?
National coach Nagelsmann doesn’t want to draw against Slovakia: “The result is relevant, but it’s very difficult to say, one point is enough for us now. We have a certain DNA. We want to keep the ball and be favourites.”
In the interest of all German football fans: Get your second win – and it’s time to head to America!
“Talented group, but…”: Klopp on DFB World Cup chances
