Overview
- Coach Julian Nagelsmann urged a sharper approach after the 0-2 loss in Bratislava, stressing more tempo and winning individual duels to avoid a repeat.
- Captain Joshua Kimmich remains a doubt with an ankle capsule injury, with Ridle Baku ready to fill in, while Nico Schlotterbeck is tipped for a swift return alongside Jonathan Tah.
- Leroy Sané impressed in Luxembourg and is expected to feature again, as in‑form striker Nick Woltemade—now on three qualifying goals—heads the attack.
- Slovakia arrive confident and organized, highlighting Stanislav Lobotka’s influence and a stingy defense, with leaders like Milan Škriniar talking up a possible upset.
- Outside the camp, reports in Germany say West Ham may allow Niclas Füllkrug a January move, and Nagelsmann has reiterated the forward needs regular minutes to re-enter contention.