Berlin: Germany legend Oliver Kahn has said that while the national team remains among the top sides in world football, their early exit from the FIFA World Cup 2026 proves that talent alone is not sufficient to succeed at the highest level.
Germany were knocked out in the Round of 32 after a penalty shootout defeat to Paraguay, marking a historic setback as it was their first-ever loss in a World Cup shootout. The result also extended their disappointing run, failing to progress deep into the tournament for the third consecutive edition.
Kahn backs quality but highlights key shortcomings
Despite the early elimination, Kahn expressed confidence in the team’s overall quality and structure under head coach Julian Nagelsmann. He noted that Germany continue to show strong tactical flexibility and a clear identity on the field.
“Germany have shown once again that they are among the top teams in the world. They have quality, tactical flexibility, and a clear identity under Julian Nagelsmann,” Kahn said while speaking as a tournament expert.
However, he also pointed out that Germany still lag slightly behind leading nations like France and Spain in terms of overall strength.
Knockout pressure demands more than talent
Kahn stressed that success in major tournaments depends heavily on team spirit and the ability to handle pressure, especially in knockout matches where mistakes can prove costly.
“Football is not only about talent. It is about building a great team spirit throughout the tournament, especially during the knockout stages. Talent alone is never enough,” he said.
He added that Germany’s inability to cope with high-pressure moments ultimately contributed to their exit.
Balance of youth and experience seen as positive
Kahn highlighted the balance within the current squad as a positive takeaway from the campaign. He praised young players such as Jamal Musiala and Florian Wirtz for their development and contributions.
Musiala, returning from injury, impressed with his creativity, while Wirtz showed maturity despite a challenging club season. Kahn noted that such young talent, combined with experienced players, forms the backbone of successful teams.
Manuel Neuer’s presence still crucial
The former goalkeeper also reserved special praise for veteran Manuel Neuer, who returned to international duty for the tournament. Kahn said Neuer’s experience brought stability and confidence to a relatively young squad.
“His presence alone gives the defenders a sense of security. It is remarkable that at 40 years of age he continues to perform at such a high level,” Kahn said.
He added that maintaining such consistency over a long career reflects exceptional professionalism.
Conclusion
Germany’s World Cup 2026 campaign has once again raised questions about their ability to convert talent into results on the global stage. While the squad shows promise and balance, Kahn’s remarks underline the need for stronger mentality and cohesion in pressure situations if Germany are to return to their former dominance.