World Cup 2026: The German national team will participate with its largest squad in the history of the World Cup!

25.06.26 FT World Cup

Ecuador

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Germany

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Germany’s starting lineup for their third‑round World Cup clash against Ecuador has become their oldest in 28 years, evoking memories of a previous era.

According to Opta, the average age of the eleven players named by the coaching staff was 30 years and 170 days — the oldest the Mannschaft have fielded at a World Cup since the summer of 1998. That tournament, however, ended in disappointment, with Germany suffering a heavy 3‑0 defeat to Croatia in the quarter‑finals.

This time around, fans will be hoping that the wealth of experience in the squad yields a far more positive outcome. While the average age may raise concerns about mobility, the coaching staff will rely on the tactical intelligence and composure that comes with years of playing at the highest level. Whether that strategy pays off remains to be seen, but the match against Ecuador will offer a clear indication of whether experience can still triumph over youth at this World Cup.

Hazem Mlhem |

Editorar, en

Hazem Mlhem est un rédacteur sportif expérimenté, animé par une passion pour le football africain.

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