Four-time world champions Germany eased past 10-man Luxembourg while Kylian Mbappé inspired France to victory over Azerbaijan in Friday’s World Cup qualifying matches.
Germany Back in Command
Captain Joshua Kimmich led from the front, scoring twice as Germany cruised to a 4-0 win over Luxembourg, moving top of Group A on goal difference ahead of Slovakia and Northern Ireland.
Germany, who have struggled for consistency in recent qualifiers, rediscovered their form with goals from David Raum, Kimmich, and Serge Gnabry. Raum opened the scoring with a free kick before Kimmich converted a penalty after Dirk Carlson was sent off for a handball in the box. Kimmich added a second soon after halftime, and Gnabry sealed the dominant win.
Coach Julian Nagelsmann praised his team’s hunger and focus: “We could have scored one or two more, but it was a deserved win — one we absolutely wanted and needed.”
Germany will face Northern Ireland in Belfast on Monday, aiming to solidify their lead.
Northern Ireland’s Revival
Northern Ireland boosted their qualification hopes with a 2-0 home win over Slovakia, thanks to an own goal from Patrik Hrosovsky and a brilliant late volley by Trai Hume. The result keeps their dream of a first World Cup appearance since 1986 alive.
“It was a great night and a good performance. The most important thing is the three points — I think we deserved it,” said Hume.
Mbappé Leads France to Victory
In Paris, Kylian Mbappé continued his electric form, scoring on the stroke of halftime for France, who beat Azerbaijan 3-0 at the Parc des Princes. The French captain’s goal was his 10th in consecutive games for club and country.
Adrien Rabiot and Florian Thauvin, making his return to international football, added the other goals as Didier Deschamps’ side stayed unbeaten and topped Group D.
France can secure qualification for the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico if they beat Iceland on Monday and Ukraine fail to defeat Azerbaijan.
Despite the convincing scoreline, Deschamps remained cautious: “I’m not going to jump for joy. We won, we scored three, but we could have got more. Monday will be another game, another context.”
Other Results
Ukraine remained second in Group D after a thrilling 5-3 win in Iceland.
In Group B, Switzerland extended their perfect start with a 2-0 victory over Sweden, while Kosovo and Slovenia battled to a 0-0 draw.
Meanwhile, Belgium were held to a goalless draw by North Macedonia, who now top Group J and edge closer to their first-ever World Cup appearance.
