Germany & Netherlands Cruise Into World Cup With Big Wins

Germany and the Netherlands closed their World Cup qualifying campaigns with huge wins on Monday night. Both teams needed only a draw to secure their tickets to the 2026 tournament in the United States, Canada and Mexico. Instead, they dominated their final group matches and sent a strong warning to their future rivals.

Germany crush Slovakia to secure World Cup 2026 spot

Germany crushed Slovakia 6-0 in front of their home fans. Coach Julian Nagelsmann praised his players for their intensity after the match.
“Every player worked like a dog today,” he said.

Germany took control early. Nick Woltemade opened the scoring in the 18th minute. Serge Gnabry added a second soon after. Leroy Sane then scored twice before the break, giving the hosts full control.
Substitutes Ridle Baku and Assan Ouedraogo sealed the heavy win in the second half.

Woltemade said the result was special for him. “I’m scoring goals and I’m hopefully going to the World Cup. It’s a great moment,” he said.

Netherlands dominate Lithuania in World Cup qualifiers

In Amsterdam, the Netherlands beat Lithuania 4-0 after a strong second-half push. Tijani Reijnders gave the Dutch an early lead, but Lithuania held firm until the break.
Cody Gakpo made it 2-0 from the penalty spot in the 58th minute. Xavi Simons and Donyell Malen then scored quick goals to finish the job.

Coach Ronald Koeman praised the high tempo his side maintained throughout the game. Reijnders said he was excited to play in his first World Cup. “I watched the last one at home. This one will be different for me,” he said.

Poland, Croatia, and Czech Republic advance in World Cup race

Poland survived a tough night in Malta, winning 3-2 after late drama. Croatia came from behind to beat Montenegro 3-2. The Czech Republic hammered Gibraltar 6-0 to secure second place in their group.

More European teams now head into the March play-offs as the final World Cup slots approach.