News Focus
- Germany chase an eighth straight victory before the World Cup begins in under two weeks
- Captain Manuel Neuer misses the match with a calf problem; Oliver Baumann takes his place in goal
- Finland failed to qualify for the finals and have lost four of their last six outings
- Key Finnish players including Lukas Hradecky have experience of playing club football in Germany
Germany welcome Finland to Mainz on Sunday evening for their final preparation match ahead of the 2026 World Cup. The friendly kicks off at 8:45 PM local time.
The hosts enter the clash in strong form. They have won each of their last seven fixtures since last September. Coach Julian Nagelsmann hopes to carry this momentum into the tournament across the USA, Mexico and Canada.
However, the Germans must cope without their veteran shot-stopper. Manuel Neuer picked up a calf injury during Bayern Munich’s recent league match. Hoffenheim’s Oliver Baumann will start between the sticks instead. Elsewhere, Nagelsmann can field a full-strength side. Stars such as Joshua Kimmich, Jamal Musiala, Florian Wirtz and Jonathan Tah are all available for selection.
Finland arrive at the Opel Arena as clear outsiders. The Nordic side failed to reach the World Cup after finishing third in their qualifying group behind Poland. Their recent results make for poor reading. Jacob Friis’s men have suffered defeat in four of their last six matches. Their most recent loss came against minnows Malta.
Despite their struggles, the visitors possess players familiar with German football. Bayer Leverkusen goalkeeper Lukas Hradecky, midfielder Naatan Skyattä, and forwards Adam Markhiyev and Benjamin Kallman all have experience in the Bundesliga or lower German divisions.
Regarding fitness, Germany confirm they will not rush Neuer back before he is ready. Finland also report a mostly healthy squad. The only concern is midfielder Adam Markhiyev. The 1.FC Nürnberg player is still recovering from a broken nose.