Germany Enter World Cup 2026 With Confidence After 2-1 Win Over USA

Germany approach the 2026 World Cup with strong belief after a 2-1 friendly win over the United States, extending a nine-match winning run. Kai Havertz and Leroy Sane scored in Chicago, while Julian Nagelsmann confirmed Manuel Neuer is expected to start in goal at the tournament.

The match at Soldier Field saw Havertz open the scoring before Antonee Robinson equalised with a volley, then Sane netted the winner from a Havertz assist. Germany now turn attention to the first World Cup group fixture against Curacao on June 14, entering that game in confident form.

Havertz reflected on the display with a measured view, acknowledging good moments and areas to refine. "I think we played a good game overall and that we were better in the second half," Havertz told RTL after the game. The forward pointed to the improved control after half-time as a key step.

That assessment matched the broader feeling inside the squad after another win under Nagelsmann. "With the ninth win in a row, were now going into the first group game with a lot of confidence. Of course, there were phases where we lost a bit of control, but overall, we are in good shape and can look forward positively."

Germany’s preparation schedule has now finished, leaving focus on competitive action at the 2026 World Cup. The meeting with Curacao on June 14 begins the group stage, with Neuer declared fit to play, while several players, including Havertz and Sane, appear in consistent form following recent results.

Oliver Baumann started against the USA and featured in all six World Cup qualifiers, but Nagelsmann has opted for Neuer as first choice. Baumann spoke openly about hearing that decision. "It was tough at first. It wasn't exactly cool," Baumann told RTL. "It was immediately clear to me that I would put myself at the service of the team. This is a World CupI want to help the team and make my contribution. Everything else is secondary."

Key recent fixtures for Germany and the opening Germany World Cup 2026 group match are shown below.

{TABLE_1}

Germany’s ninth straight victory, the goals from Havertz and Sane, Neuer’s availability, and Baumann’s response all underline a settled group heading towards the Germany World Cup 2026 campaign, with the team aiming to carry recent momentum into the opener against Curacao on June 14.