Germany's national team won 2-0 against Luxembourg in World Cup qualifying, thanks to a brace from Nick Woltemade. Despite a weak first half performance, the victory maintained their lead in Group A. A draw against Slovakia on Monday will suffice for qualification to the 2026 World Cup.
In the Stade de Luxembourg, the teams met on the penultimate matchday of World Cup qualifying Group A. Before 9,214 spectators, Luxembourg, ranked 97th by FIFA, started offensively and strongly in duels. In the first half, the hosts dominated: Danel Sinani from FC St. Pauli shot just wide in the 11th minute, Aiman Dardari missed the target in the 17th. The Germans struggled, with Florian Wirtz wasting the first chance in the 8th minute. The shot ratio was 4:2 in Luxembourg's favor after 25 minutes. Goalkeeper Oliver Baumann had more ball contacts than attackers Serge Gnabry and Nick Woltemade combined.
Jonathan Tah captained the side in his 42nd international, as Joshua Kimmich was injured. The defense faced early issues, with Tah saving after 180 seconds. After the break, the game shifted: Leroy Sané provided a perfect assist for Woltemade's opener in the 49th minute (1-0). Dardari missed the equalizer shortly after (51st minute). Leon Goretzka received a yellow card and was substituted in the 55th minute to avoid a red; Felix Nmecha replaced him. Christopher Martins squandered a big chance for Luxembourg in the 65th minute. Woltemade made it 2-0 in the 69th minute after work from Ridle Baku.
Coach Julian Nagelsmann praised the win: 'We have three points, that's the important thing in the end.' Woltemade told RTL: 'Honestly, I don't care how right now: the main thing is we won the game. I know it wasn't a treat, but we hung in there.' Despite the success, the performance was disappointing and unsuitable for a major tournament. Germany remains top of the group with 12 points. On Monday in Leipzig against Slovakia, a draw will secure World Cup qualification. Luxembourg stays pointless and faces their worst result in 20 years.