Germany Extend Winning Streak to Nine
A sold-out crowd of 63,636 at Soldier Field in Chicago witnessed a compelling World Cup preparation match as Germany defeated the United States 2-1 on June 6. The result extended Germany’s winning streak to nine matches heading into the 2026 FIFA World Cup, while the USMNT continued their troubling run of nine consecutive losses against European opposition since 2022.
The match served as a crucial final test for both nations ahead of the tournament. Germany, four-time world champions, demonstrated the clinical edge that has defined their recent resurgence under Julian Nagelsmann’s tactical guidance.
Rapid Start Sets the Tone
Germany wasted no time asserting their authority, taking the lead in just the second minute. Joshua Kimmich’s expertly delivered free kick found the head of Kai Havertz, who directed his effort home from close range to open the scoring. The early goal came after Tyler Adams committed a foul in a dangerous area, giving the Germans an opportunity they duly capitalized on.
The United States responded admirably, growing into the match as the first half progressed. Their persistence paid off in the 37th minute when Antonee Robinson produced a moment of brilliance. Meeting Christian Pulisic’s corner kick with a crisp left-footed volley from the edge of the area, the full-back sent the ball into the back of the net before celebrating with an acrobatic cartwheel and backflip — his fifth international goal.
Sané’s Decisive Strike
The second half followed a similar pattern, with both teams creating opportunities. The decisive moment arrived in the 57th minute when Leroy Sané collected a short pass from Havertz and unleashed a diagonal shot that took a slight deflection off Miles Robinson’s leg, wrong-footing goalkeeper Matt Freese before nestling into the far corner.
Despite a spirited late push from the hosts, Mauricio Pochettino’s side could not find an equalizer. The result means the United States have now lost their final pre-tournament fixture for the first time since 2002, a statistical quirk that had stood for 24 years.
Team News and Injury Concerns
The United States were without top defender Chris Richards, who suffered torn ankle ligaments on May 17. Matt Freese started in goal, earning his 15th start in 18 appearances for the national team. For Germany, midfielder Lennart Karl was ruled out of the World Cup entirely with a thigh injury, while veteran goalkeeper Manuel Neuer was rested as he continues recovering from a calf issue. Oliver Baumann started between the posts.
What It Means for the World Cup
The United States open their World Cup campaign against Paraguay on June 12, followed by matches against Australia and Turkey in what is a manageable group on paper. Germany, meanwhile, face a testing group stage that includes Curaçao on June 14, followed by the Ivory Coast and Ecuador.
Notably, Chicago — the host city for this friendly — controversially refused to bid for 2026 World Cup matches, citing a lack of financial assurances from FIFA. The 63,636 fans who filled Soldier Field on Saturday offered a poignant reminder of what the city is missing out on this summer.
Source: Marca