Germany national football team continue preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup when they host Finland national football team in an international friendly at the MEWA Arena on Sunday, 31st May,2026.
Germany head into the contest after securing qualification for a 19th consecutive World Cup finals appearance in emphatic fashion, thrashing Slovakia 6-0 to conclude their qualifying campaign. The dominant result also served as a strong response to their earlier shock defeat during qualification.
Under Julian Nagelsmann, Germany have gradually rebuilt confidence following inconsistent form earlier in the campaign. The four-time world champions also recorded victories over Switzerland and Ghana during the March international break and will now look to maintain momentum ahead of the tournament this summer.
Germany will also face the United States in another warm-up fixture next week as Nagelsmann finalises preparations for a tournament carrying huge expectations after disappointing group-stage exits at both the 2018 and 2022 World Cups.
Finland, who has gone ahead to promote the senior men’s international friendly against Germany on via their X account, once again fell short in their attempt to qualify for a first-ever FIFA World Cup appearance. After collecting seven points from their opening four qualifying matches, hopes of reaching the playoffs faded following three defeats in their final four games.
The visitors responded with victories against Andorra and New Zealand but recently suffered a penalty shootout defeat to Cape Verde before enduring a heavy 4-0 loss to Netherlands national football team. During that match, Memphis Depay surpassed Wesley Sneijder as the Netherlands’ all-time assist leader.
Finland will now attempt to build momentum ahead of their UEFA Nations League campaign, although history remains heavily against them, with the Finns winless against Germany since 1972.
Team News
Germany will be without experienced goalkeeper Manuel Neuer, who continues to recover from a calf injury despite being expected to start at the World Cup. Oliver Baumann is expected to deputise in goal.
Kai Havertz will also miss the fixture due to his involvement in Arsenal’s UEFA Champions League final, meaning rising striker Nick Woltemade could lead the attack.
For Finland, veteran goalkeeper Lukas Hradecky is expected to make his 104th international appearance. Defensively, Nikolai Alho, Ville Koski and Samuli Miettinen are likely to form the back line.
Experienced striker Joel Pohjanpalo is expected to spearhead Finland’s attack.
Possible Lineups
Germany possible starting lineup:
Baumann; Kimmich, Tah, Schlotterbeck, Raum; Goretzka, Stiller; Sane, Musiala, Wirtz; Woltemade
Finland possible starting lineup:
Hradecky; Alho, Koski, Miettinen; Skytta, Suhonen, Markhiyev, Walta, Lahteenmaki; Pohjanpalo, Antman
How to Watch
| Platform | Details |
|---|---|
| TV Broadcast | SuperSport Football Plus |
| Live Stream | DStv Stream app |
| Kick-off Time | 19:45 (WAT) |
Match Prediction
Softfootball predicts Germany 3-0 Finland
Germany’s attacking quality and superior depth should prove decisive as they continue building confidence before the World Cup. Finland may remain organised defensively, but the hosts are expected to dominate possession and chances.
