Havertz: Germany going into World Cup with a lot of confidence

Kai Havertz believes Germany are heading into the 2026 World Cup "with a lot of confidence" after defeating the United States in a friendly.

Germany won 2-1 at Soldier Field with goals from Havertz and Leroy Sane coming either side of a stunning volley from Antonee Robinson.

Havertz also assisted Sane's winner, which marked Germany's ninth consecutive win as Julian Nagelsmann's side head into the World Cup in stellar form.

Although admitting it was not a perfect performance against co-hosts USA on Saturday, Havertz believes there is plenty of reason for Germany to be optimistic.

"I think we played a good game overall and that we were better in the second half," Havertz told RTL after the game.

"With the ninth win in a row, we’re now going into the first group game with a lot of confidence.

"Of course, there were phases where we lost a bit of control, but overall, we are in good shape and can look forward positively."

Germany begin their World Cup campaign against Curacao on June 14, and Nagelsmann confirmed Manuel Neuer would be fit to start between the sticks.

Oliver Baumann, who started against the USA and in all six of Germany's World Cup qualifiers, admitted it was difficult to hear he would not be the first choice this summer.

"It was tough at first. It wasn't exactly cool," Baumann told RTL.

"It was immediately clear to me that I would put myself at the service of the team. This is a World Cup – I want to help the team and make my contribution. Everything else is secondary."