March 31, 2026
In the international friendlies before the FIFA World Cup, some Germany players seized their moments while others failed to impress. Germany beat Switzerland and Ghana in March, and with the final 26-man squad due in less than two months, these matches offered one last chance to influence selection.
Winners
– Kai Havertz – With nearly 60 caps, Havertz remains an important figure for Germany. Returning from a long injury layoff, he reasserted himself with assured combination play against Switzerland and calmly converted a penalty against Ghana. His performances suggest his place in the starting XI is secure as he regains match fitness and form.
– Florian Wirtz – Already a likely pick for the World Cup, the 22-year-old produced an outstanding display in Basel with two goals and two assists, and set the tone in Stuttgart with brave decision-making on the ball. In Jamal Musiala’s absence, Wirtz showed he can provide Germany with creativity and impetus on his own.
– Lennart Karl – The 18-year-old Bayern playmaker impressed off the bench in Basel and started brightly in Stuttgart, winning possession, driving at Ghana’s defense and consistently taking opponents on. He missed a chance to score but otherwise gave Julian Nagelsmann clear reasons to include him in the squad.
– Nathaniel Brown – The 22-year-old Eintracht Frankfurt left-back played 60 minutes against Ghana and looked competent defensively and comfortable on the ball. With questions still lingering over David Raum’s form, Brown’s showing makes a squad spot appear likely and suggests he could earn more gametime.
Losers
– Angelo Stiller – Called up due to injuries elsewhere, Stiller started both friendlies but did not capitalise on the opportunity. He looked hesitant on the ball at times and was slow to close down Switzerland’s opener in Basel. Pascal Groß’s solid display in Stuttgart further diminishes Stiller’s chances, making the World Cup feel premature for him.
– Nico Schlotterbeck – Despite starting both matches beside Jonathan Tah in the preferred central pairing, Schlotterbeck struggled, notably with sloppy moments in build-up play in Switzerland that proved costly. He was steadier in Stuttgart but still out of sorts at times. He will likely travel to the tournament, but these games may have raised questions about recent defensive choices, including Antonio Rüdiger’s bench role.
– Nick Woltemade – The Newcastle striker was given a chance to regain confidence but failed to deliver. He had little impact in 20 minutes against Switzerland and, in Stuttgart, missed a gilt-edged chance and later hit the bar despite playing nearly 80 minutes. He is likely to be included in May’s squad, but needs to rediscover form before the tournament.
Edited by: Matt Pearson