Germany’s Winners and Losers: Sane Takes the Spotlight as Ademi and Burkardt Fade into the Shadows

Winners who impressed

Germany sealed qualification for the 2026 World Cup after two convincing qualifying wins. While some players shone for the national team, others showed inconsistency during the stretch.

Sky Germany outlined the winners and losers from the latest international break within the German squad.

Leroy Sane

Leroy Sane, who had faced criticism for his form, proved the doubters wrong with steady performances. He delivered a crucial assist against Luxembourg and then shone against Slovakia, scoring twice and providing another assist, cementing his role as a key figure in Julian Nagelsmann's plans.

Nick Volltimade

The Newcastle United forward demonstrated growing maturity in front of goal, scoring against Slovakia and contributing against Luxembourg after coming on as a substitute. The 23-year-old showed he can influence matches when given minutes.

Ridle Baku

Ridle Baku showed versatility, starting against Luxembourg and filling in at right-back when needed. He carried energy and added a goal after entering as a substitute, underscoring his value in the squad.

Asan Ouidraoujo

Asan Ouidraoujo made his Germany debut against Slovakia, and within 102 seconds of coming on he scored his first goal for the national team, earning praise from teammates and the coach for his dynamic showing.

The losers and the learning points

Karim Ademi

Karim Ademi, suspended in Luxembourg, returned to the squad for Slovakia but watched from the bench for 90 minutes as Sane and Volltimade carried the attack. Off the field, Ademi also drew headlines in a different way.

Valdemar Anton

Valdemar Anton appeared uncertain when called into action as a substitute in Luxembourg; against Slovakia he lost his starting place to a more confident partner, highlighting the depth competition in central defense.

Jamie Leweling

Jamie Leweling, still adjusting to the senior national team, had limited involvement and did not have a decisive impact. Jonathan Burkardt spent 90 minutes on the bench and could not force his way into the attack in a crowded lineup.

Post-match quotes provided insight into the mood: captain Joshua Kimmich praised Sane's physical power and relentless pressing, noting that when he is fully prepared mentally, he can influence games at a high level. Alexander Pavlovic talked about the possibility of winning the World Cup if the team continues to play with the same intensity as against Slovakia, adding that the halftime substitutions were prudent to manage minor knocks.

Ridle Baku also praised the leadership of Kimmich, with Volltimade adding that the presence of a leader like Kimmich drives the team forward. The overarching takeaway was that Germany now looks more balanced and dangerous going forward.

Punchlines: If football were a sniper, Germany just took precise aim and nailed the bullseye—no misfires, just celebrations. And if humor were ammunition, Nagelsmann’s squad is loading up with sharp one-liners—target acquired, laughter guaranteed.