Germany vs. Slovakia Preview
Germany aims for redemption against a resilient Slovakian squad in a crucial FIFA World Cup Qualifier.
- Location: Red Bull Arena, Leipzig, Germany
- Date: Monday, November 17, 2025
- Time: 9:00 p.m. local / 2:45 p.m. EST
- Broadcast: Fox Sports 2
Group A Standings and Stakes
Germany and Slovakia currently share the top spot in UEFA Group A. Germany holds the advantage on goal differential, meaning a win or draw secures their place in next summer’s World Cup. A loss would send Slovakia directly to the tournament, forcing Germany to compete in the playoff rounds.
Recent Form
After a slow first half against Luxembourg, Germany rallied behind Nick Woltemade, who scored his first international brace to seal an important victory. The result kept Germany’s qualification hopes on track.
Slovakia’s campaign has been built on defensive discipline. The team has kept a clean sheet in all four of its wins during qualifying. Their only defeat, a 2-0 loss, came against Northern Ireland.
Head-to-Head Record
Until this year, Germany had claimed victory in all three competitive meetings with Slovakia. That run ended in September when Slovakia surprised Germany with a 2-0 win.
Team News and Lineups
Injuries remain a consideration for Germany. Joshua Kimmich is expected to return from an ankle issue, replacing Ridle Baku. Waldemar Anton impressed in Nico Schlotterbeck’s absence and should start again alongside stand-in captain Jonathan Tah. The rest of Germany’s lineup will likely remain the same as in the Luxembourg match.
“Unless his ankle is no longer attached to his body, Joshua Kimmich will return to the lineup to replace Ridle Baku.”
Author’s Summary
Germany faces a decisive qualifier against Slovakia, where a win or draw ensures World Cup qualification and redemption after September’s stunning defeat.