Germany and the Netherlands have officially qualified for the 2026 FIFA World Cup after emphatic victories in their final European qualifying matches. Germany crushed Slovakia 6-0 in Leipzig, while the Netherlands defeated Lithuania 4-0 in Amsterdam. Both teams needed only a draw to advance but opted for attacking displays to seal their places in style. Slovakia and Poland finished second in their respective groups, earning playoff spots for March’s 16-team European playoff round. Northern Ireland also reached the playoffs through their Nations League performance despite finishing third in Group A. Croatia, already qualified earlier, beat Montenegro 3-2, and the Czech Republic secured second place in Group L with a 6-0 win over Gibraltar. Germany’s win featured goals from Nick Woltemade, Serge Gnabry, Leroy Sané, Ridle Baku, and Assan Ouedraogo. The Netherlands’ victory was powered by Tijjani Reijnders, Cody Gakpo, Xavi Simons, and Donyell Malen, delighting 50,000 fans at the Johan Cruyff Arena.