Mansion Sports – The classic confrontation between two prominent European teams returns for the final matchday of the UEFA World Cup 2026 Qualifiers Group A. 

Germany and Slovakia will meet in a decisive fixture that not only determines the group leader but also the team that secures an automatic place in the tournament’s final round.

The match takes place at Red Bull Arena, Leipzig, on Monday, 17 November 2025 at 20:45 local time.

For those who enjoy high-stakes football from start to finish, this encounter promises to deliver. Germany only needs a draw to seal the top spot, while Slovakia must win by a considerable margin to overtake their rivals. This situation heightens the intensity surrounding the clash.

Team Conditions Ahead of the Match

Germany

Germany enters this match with positive momentum following a 2-0 victory over Luxembourg, where Nick Woltemade scored both goals, raising their points total to 12. 

However, their lead remains fragile because they are ahead of Slovakia only on goal difference, leaving everything open in this decisive encounter.

Germany’s performance throughout the qualifiers has been inconsistent. They opened with a 0-2 defeat to Slovakia but rebounded strongly with four consecutive wins. 

This mixed trajectory poses a challenge for Julian Nagelsmann’s squad, especially with Slovakia arriving in strong form and carrying considerable confidence.

Key players such as Marc-André ter Stegen, Antonio Rüdiger, Jamal Musiala, and Kai Havertz are sidelined due to injuries. 

Even so, the overall squad remains stable with no new absences, allowing Nagelsmann to maintain the core structure seen in their previous match. Joshua Kimmich and Nico Schlotterbeck are expected to return to the starting line-up.

Slovakia

Slovakia also showcases an impressive run with four victories from five matches. Their most recent outing ended with a 1-0 win against Northern Ireland, secured through a late goal by Tomas Bobcek. This strong record demonstrates their resilience and readiness to compete at the highest level.

In their last three meetings with Germany, Slovakia has won twice, a statistic that boosts their motivation and strengthens their belief that they can once again produce an upset.

For Slovakia, this match is not merely about topping the standings; it is also an opportunity to reaffirm their capability to return to the global stage after missing out since the 2010 World Cup.

Group A Standings (Table)

Predicted Line-Up: Germany vs Slovakia (November 2025)

Germany (4-2-3-1)

Germany will be without several key figures due to injury, yet the squad remains experienced and cohesive. 

Rising talent Nick Woltemade is expected to lead the front line once again, supported by the consistent performances of Florian Wirtz. 

Their partnership is essential in Germany’s attempt to secure an early advantage and maintain control throughout the match.

Slovakia (4-3-3)

Slovakia relies on David Strelec as the focal point in attack, while Martin Dubravka’s experience in goal and Milan Skriniar’s presence in defence form a solid foundation. 

David Hancko is expected to operate at left-back, while Tomas Rigo and David Duris are projected to start from the opening whistle.

This match is set to determine not only the leader of Group A but also to demonstrate the readiness of both national teams. 

Germany seeks to reestablish its standing after setbacks in the previous two World Cup editions, while Slovakia aims to create new history by securing the top position.

With a high level of intensity, a competitive history, and line-ups filled with talent, this encounter promises to captivate football supporters until the very end.