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[SPORTS] · Germany, Côte d’Ivoire, Curaçao, Canada, United States · 4 sources

Germany secures World Cup round of 16 spot as Schlotterbeck injury ends his tournament

Germany qualified for the round of 16 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup after winning both of its Group E matches. The team beat Curaçao 7–1 in Toronto and defeated Ivory Coast 2–1 in Kansas City, with Deniz Undav scoring twice in the latter game. The victories gave Germany six points, topping the group and ensuring progression to the knockout stage, where they will face Ecuador.

Defender Nico Schlotterbeck suffered a serious ankle injury in the Ivory Coast match and is ruled out for the remainder of the tournament. Scans confirmed the injury will keep him sidelined for several weeks. Coach Julian Nagelsmann will rely on Antonio Rüdiger to fill the vacancy in the defensive line.

The German squad, led by coach Nagelsmann, will now prepare for its final group game against Ecuador, aiming to maintain its unbeaten record in the competition.