Slovakia secured a landmark 2-0 victory over Germany in Bratislava on 4 September 2025, marking their first ever competitive win as an independent nation against the German side .
The result also represented Germany's first away loss in a World Cup qualifying match after an impressive 52-match unbeaten run, delivering a stunning blow to the defending champions’ confidence .
The opening goal arrived just prior to halftime, when Dávid Hancko capitalized on a turnover to slot home a precise finish in the 42nd minute . Slovakia doubled their advantage shortly after the break, as David Strelec weaved through the German defense before unleashing a curled shot into the top corner in the 55th minute .
Germany’s performance fell well below expectations, with coach Julian Nagelsmann lamenting a conspicuous absence of emotional intensity and questioning whether individual quality had come at the expense of generational grit and fight . Bayern Munich’s Joshua Kimmich also echoed this sentiment, placing blame on the squad’s “lack of courage and attitude” and highlighting the need for unity and resilience moving forward .
From Slovakia’s perspective, the win was built on disciplined tactics and clinical execution. The team’s compact defensive structure thoroughly disrupted Germany’s rhythm, nullifying their offensive threats and capitalizing efficiently on key mistakes . Strelec’s performance was particularly notable—having just completed a club move to Middlesbrough, he emerged as the match-winning hero with both a goal and an assist .
The ramifications of this outcome for Germany are significant. Already on the back of two Nations League defeats to Portugal and France, this third consecutive loss escalates the pressure on Nagelsmann’s side and casts doubt over their path in the 2026 World Cup qualifying race
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