Germany vs Northern Ireland – Match Preview
Germany continue their World Cup 2026 qualifying campaign with a crucial home fixture against Northern Ireland. Julian Nagelsmann’s side remain firm favourites, but the big talking point is the striker dilemma—will it be Nick Woltemade or Niclas Füllkrug to lead the line?
With stars like Florian Wirtz and Serge Gnabry certain to start, and experienced midfielders such as Joshua Kimmich holding things together, the predicted lineup suggests an attacking approach. Northern Ireland, however, will be determined to make life difficult for the four-time World Cup champions.
Head-to-Head (H2H)
Germany remain unbeaten in their last several encounters with Northern Ireland.
Northern Ireland have historically struggled to score against Germany’s disciplined defense.
The last few meetings were dominated by Germany, both home and away.
Predicted Lineups
| Germany (4-2-3-1) | Northern Ireland (4-5-1) |
|---|---|
| GK: Baumann | GK: Peacock-Farrell |
| LB: Raum | LB: Lewis |
| CB: Tah | CB: Ballard |
| CB: Rüdiger | CB: Cathcart |
| RB: Mittelstädt | RB: Bradley |
| CM: Kimmich | CM: McNair |
| CM: Gross | CM: Saville |
| LW: Adeyemi | CM: Thompson |
| CAM: Wirtz | CM: Davis |
| RW: Gnabry | RW: Whyte |
| ST: Woltemade / Füllkrug | ST: Charles |
Form Guide
Germany (Last 6): W, D, W, L, W, W – overall stable with attacking improvements.
Northern Ireland (Last 6): L, L, W, D, L, L – inconsistent, struggling for goals.
Key Players to Watch
Germany: Florian Wirtz (playmaker), Serge Gnabry (wing threat), Joshua Kimmich (midfield control).
Northern Ireland: Paddy McNair (engine), Josh Magennis (experience), Bailey Peacock-Farrell (goalkeeper resilience).
Odds (Indicative)
Germany Win: 1.20
Draw: 6.00
Northern Ireland Win: 12.00
Germany enter as overwhelming favourites, reflecting their form, quality, and depth.
Betting Tips
- Germany to Win & Over 2.5 Goals – their attacking firepower should deliver.
- Both Teams to Score – No – Northern Ireland often struggle to break down Germany’s defense.
- Anytime Goalscorer: Wirtz or Gnabry – both in strong form and heavily involved in chance creation.
Germany should dominate possession and create plenty of chances. Northern Ireland will try to stay compact and frustrate, but the hosts’ quality is expected to shine through.
Predicted Score: Germany 3-0 Northern Ireland
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