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Germany Can Clinch 2026 Berth With Draw or Win Against Slovakia

Norway’s win in Italy has improved Germany’s seeding outlook ahead of the decisive night in Leipzig.

Overview

  • Germany and Slovakia are level on 12 points, but Germany’s superior goal difference (+7 to +4) means a draw secures first place under the tiebreak rules.
  • A loss would send Germany into UEFA’s March play-offs, which feature four single-leg paths with semifinals on 26 March and finals on 31 March.
  • The play-off draw is scheduled for 20 November at 13:00 in Zurich, determining the four paths for the 16 teams involved.
  • Direct qualification would place Germany in Pot 1 for the 5 December World Cup draw, keeping the biggest contenders out of Germany’s group.
  • Norway’s 4-1 victory in Italy, powered by an Erling Haaland double, strengthened Germany’s prospects for favorable seeding, while FIFA is set to publish final draw procedures this week.