Havertz says Germany full of World Cup confidence
Kai Havertz believes Germany is heading into the 2026 FIFA World Cup full of confidence after defeating United States in a friendly on Sunday (AEST).
Germany won 2-1 at Soldier Field with goals from Havertz and Leroy Sane coming either side of a stunning volley from Antonee Robinson.
Havertz also assisted Sane's winner, which marked Germany's ninth consecutive win as Julian Nagelsmann's side heads into the FIFA World Cup in stellar form.
Although admitting it was not a perfect performance against the co-host, Havertz believes there is plenty of reason for Germany to be optimistic.
"I think we played a good game overall and that we were better in the second half," he said after the game.
"With the ninth win in a row, we’re now going into the first group game with a lot of confidence.
"Of course, there were phases where we lost a bit of control, but overall, we are in good shape and can look forward positively."
Germany begins its campaign against Curacao on 15 June (AEST), and Nagelsmann has confirmed Manuel Neuer will be fit to start between the sticks.
Oliver Baumann, who started against USA and in all six of Germany's FIFA World Cup qualifiers, admitted it was difficult to hear he would not be the first choice at the tournament.
"It was tough at first. It wasn't exactly cool," Baumann said.
"It was immediately clear to me that I would put myself at the service of the team. This is a [FIFA] World Cup – I want to help the team and make my contribution. Everything else is secondary."
