“We can beat any opponent” – Schlotterbeck eyes German World Cup glory after Slovakia thrashing

If Germany play like they did against Slovakia, they can beat any team, according to Nico Schlotterbeck, who will be going to the World Cup to win it.

Germany booked their place at the 2026 World Cup in convincing fashion on Monday, thrashing Slovakia 6-0 in their final qualifier.

Nico Schlotterbeck was in high spirits after the game, telling ZDF that he believes he and his teammates can go all the way at next year’s tournament if they continue in the same vein.

“If we play like we did today, we are a very good team. And if the players who can help us but are currently injured come back, I believe we can have a very strong World Cup. The first step has been taken – and at the World Cup, the next steps will follow,” said Schlotterbeck.

“If we play the World Cup like we did at the Euros last year – with a bit more luck and slightly better performances – we can really make an impact,” the German defender added.

“If we play like we did today, it doesn’t matter whether we’re facing the 46th-ranked team or the top-ranked team. We can beat any opponent. We are still Germany. We want to achieve something. I want to go to the World Cup to win it.”

Germany have won the World Cup four times in the past – in 1954, 1974, 1990 and 2014.