Northern Ireland and Germany Clash in Crucial World Cup Qualifier

On Monday, October 13th, 2025, Northern Ireland and Germany will go head-to-head in a crucial World Cup qualifier at Windsor Park. The two teams are currently locked in a tight three-way battle for the top spot in Group A, along with Slovakia, making this encounter absolutely vital for their qualification hopes.

Northern Ireland will be forced to make at least one change to their lineup, as Conor Bradley, the Liverpool right-back who was described as "the best player on the pitch by a mile" in their recent 2-0 victory over Slovakia, is ruled out due to suspension after being booked in that match. Oxford United's Brodie Spencer is expected to replace Bradley at right-back.

Meanwhile, Germany will be without several key players for their trip to Belfast. Kai Havertz, Jamal Musiala, Antonio Rudiger, and Marc-Andre ter Stegen are all ruled out through injury, while Niclas Fullkrug's calf problem also leaves the door open for Nick Woltemade to lead the German attack.

Despite these absences, Northern Ireland will have their work cut out for them. The Green and White Army have found their rhythm at the perfect time, with their recent form built on defensive solidity and clinical finishing. However, Germany have also bounced back from their shock 2-0 defeat to Slovakia in their opening qualifier, securing comfortable victories in their subsequent matches.