The qualifying stage of the 2026 World Cup in Europe has begun in full swing, and unexpected results are already being recorded. The incident in Group A particularly surprised the fans. Germany made a sensation in a 0-2 away defeat against Slovakia. Hansko opened the scoring in the 42nd minute, shortly afterwards Streles scored the second goal in the 55th minute, securing an important victory for the Slovakians.
Group A. Round 1
Slovakia - Germany 2:0
Goals: Hansko (42), Streles (55).
In the second match of the same group, Northern Ireland defeated Luxembourg 3-1. For the Irish, Reid (7), Charles (46), and Devenny (69) put their names on the board. Dardari scored Luxembourg's only goal in the 30th minute.
Luxembourg - Northern Ireland 1:3
Goals: Dardari (30) - Reid (7), Charles (46), Devenny (69).
In Group E, Spain once again demonstrated its strength. On the trip against Bulgaria, they decided everything in the first half. Goals from Oyarzabal (5'), Cucurella (30'), and Merino (38') secured a convincing 3-0 victory for the Red Fury. Earlier in this group, Turkey defeated Georgia.
Group E. Round 1
Bulgaria - Spain 0:3
Goals: Oyarzabal (5), Cucurella (30), Merino (38).
The clash between the Netherlands and Poland in Group G was as tense as expected. In the first half, Dumfries opened the scoring in the 28th minute, while Kesh from Poland equalized in the 80th minute, securing a crucial point - 1:1.
Group G. Round 5
Netherlands - Poland 1:1
Goals: Dumfries (28) - Cash (80).
In Group J, Belgium left Liechtenstein no chance. Roberto Martinez's side secured a resounding 6-0 victory. Goals were scored by De Kuiper (29), Tielemans (46th and 70th minutes, penalties), Teate (60), De Bruyne (62), and Fofana (90+1). In the previous match of this group, Wales defeated Kazakhstan.
Group J. Round 5
Liechtenstein - Belgium 0:6
Goals: De Kuiper (29), Tielemans (46, 70 pen), Teate (60), De Bruyne (62), Fofana (90+1).
Thus, the European qualifying stage is becoming even more interesting. While Germany's defeat is noted as a sensation, Spain and Belgium's major victories demonstrate their serious claims. It's natural for fans to expect more intense clashes in the upcoming rounds.
Read 'Zamin' on Telegram!
