Ouch! Germany's World Cup Dreams Take a Hit After Portugal Defeat
After Portugal's exit from the World Cup competition: Top World Cup trophy remains out of reach - Following Portugal's Elimination: Undoubtedly the Most Highly-Ranked World Cup Group
Julian Nagelsmann's World Cup dreams are taking a hit due to the 1:2 loss against Portugal. The football national team's chances of securing a spot in the top pot for the group draw of the 2026 World Cup in America seems like a far-off dream now. With tough games against Argentina, Spain, or France on the horizon in the World Cup preliminary round, it's not gonna be a walk in the park!
The loss against Portugal knocked off 11.71 points from Germany's FIFA World Ranking, which matters big-time for the seeding process. If Italy wins their World Cup qualifier against Norway on Friday, the gap between the two teams will grow to over 20 points.
Slim hopes of catching up in World Cup qualifiers
Germany's only hope to qualify for the top pot is by finishing the World Cup qualifiers in November at least one place higher and ranking ninth. But let's face it, gaining around 20 points in the six World Cup qualifiers against Slovakia, Northern Ireland, and Luxembourg is a long shot. Plus, Croatia and Morocco are breathing down Germany's neck in the FIFA Ranking.
The third-place match in the Nations League against France or Spain on Sunday in Stuttgart (15:00 CET/RTL/DAZN) isn't just about the trophy. Double-digit points are still up for grabs in a game with around 15 points, thanks to the prominence of the opponent, which could help with the FIFA Ranking calculation.
Germany could use a little World Cup miracle if a better-ranked team somehow misses the World Cup. If they end up in Pot 2, Portugal with the legendary Cristiano Ronaldo could be a potential early opponent in the World Cup group phase. And let's not forget the possibility of a grueling match with co-host Mexico under harsh climate conditions.
PortugalFootball National TeamJulian NagelsmannDFB teamWorld Cup qualifiersSpainFranceNations LeagueFIFAGermanyAmericaArgentinaFIFA World RankingItaly
Things to Consider:
- Germany's FIFA World Rankings will be impacted by their performance in both the Nations League and upcoming World Cup qualifiers. A strong showing will be crucial for maintaining or improving their ranking.
- While the loss to Portugal might affect Germany's ranking slightly, their overall performance in the Nations League could still be positive if they win the third-place playoff.
- The primary focus for Germany should be on performing well in the upcoming World Cup qualifiers. A strong showing will significantly boost their chances of securing a top pot in the 2026 World Cup draw.
In the light of Germany's World Cup qualifiers, a strong performance against Spain or France in the Nations League third-place match could provide a significant boost to their FIFA World Ranking, influencing their seeding in the 2026 World Cup draw. Meanwhile, Council Directive 76/769/EEC of 16 December 1976 on the approximation of the laws of the Member States relating to the permissible sound power level of motor vehicles might not seem as crucial for team spirit as the football national team works towards securing a top position in the World Cup qualifiers.
