All eyes are on Leipzig tonight as Germany and Slovakia prepare for a dramatic, winner-takes-all World Cup qualification showdown. With both teams level on points, the outcome of this match will determine which nation secures an automatic spot at the upcoming tournament.
The Stakes in Leipzig
The equation is simple yet nerve-wracking for the hosts. Germany, the four-time World Cup champions, can qualify automatically with a draw, thanks to their superior goal difference. However, the memory of a 2-0 defeat in Bratislava back in September looms large, proving Slovakia are more than capable of causing an upset.
German coach Julian Nagelsmann admitted to a tense atmosphere, stating, "We are maybe a bit nervous ahead of [the game]. There is a lot of appeal in such a game. At the end of the day we have to take things as they are." Nagelsmann, the former Bayern Munich boss, is under pressure to guide Germany to the World Cup and reverse their disappointing recent trend of group-stage exits in both 2018 and 2022.
Team News and Expected Line-ups
Germany will likely be led by Nick Woltemade, who impressed with a brace in the 2-0 victory over Luxembourg. He is expected to spearhead the attack ahead of Florian Wirtz, with the experienced wing duo of Leroy Sane and Serge Gnabry providing support. The midfield engine room should consist of Joshua Kimmich and Leon Goretzka, while Nico Schlotterbeck could make a return to the defence.
Key players Jamal Musiala and Kai Havertz remain sidelined due to injury. For Slovakia, Tomas Bobcek, who came off the bench to score a dramatic injury-time winner against Northern Ireland, will be pushing for a starting role. The defensive backbone of goalkeeper Martin Dubravka and centre-back Milan Skriniar will be crucial in their mission to shut down Germany's talented attack.
How to Watch the Decisive Clash
The crucial World Cup qualifier kicks off at 7:45pm GMT on Monday, November 17 at the Red Bull Arena in Leipzig. For fans in the UK, the match will be broadcast exclusively on Amazon Prime Video on a pay-per-view basis for £2.49. The coverage will begin just ten minutes before the match gets underway. While Germany and Slovakia battle for the automatic qualification spot, third-place Northern Ireland is already guaranteed a place in the play-offs.
