Germany defeated the United States 2-1 in a close international friendly ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, giving the four-time champions a final stern test before the tournament begins.
In the match, played in Chicago, Germany took an early lead thanks to Kai Havertz, who scored in the opening minutes to put the visitors ahead.
The United States responded well and grew into the game, finally finding the equalizer thanks to a magnificent shot from Antonee Robinson just before the break.
However, Germany regained control in the second half, with Leroy Sané scoring the decisive goal in the 57th minute after a quick attacking play that exposed gaps in the American defense.
The result continues Germany’s good run heading into the World Cup, while the United States showed flashes of quality in attack but struggled for consistency against one of Europe’s most in-form teams.
Both teams used the match as a final opportunity to fine-tune tactics, test combinations and evaluate team depth ahead of the tournament, where the margins are expected to be extremely tight.
Despite the loss, the US coaching staff will take positives from their performance, particularly their ability to respond after conceding early and compete physically against a top-tier opponent.
Germany, meanwhile, will head into the World Cup with confidence after another disciplined and efficient display that highlighted their attacking depth and control at key moments.
