New Delhi, June 8 -- Germany arrive at the FIFA World Cup 2026 ranked 10th in the world. They are 4-time World Cup champions, yet their last knockout match was the 2014 final, which they won. Two consecutive group-stage exits followed in Russia and Qatar.

The picture is one of faded glory seeking restoration. Head coach Julian Nagelsmann carries the weight of a nation's expectations into North America.

Germany hold the record for the most World Cup final appearances with 8. Their 4 titles came in 1954, 1974, 1990 and 2014. The 2014 triumph in Brazil, sealed with a 1-0 extra-time win over Argentina, remains their most recent crown. What followed was a stunning fall from grace.

In Russia 2018, Germany lost its opening game and never reco...