Germany beat USA 2–1 and carry nine-match streak into the World Cup

Germany take down USA 2–1 in final World Cup tune-up

Nine wins in a row. That's the form Germany carry into the World Cup after beating the USA 2–1 on Saturday in the final warm-up match. Kai Havertz, Leroy Sané, and Jamal Musiala all featured as Nagelsmann's side got exactly the test they needed before the real thing begins. "It was a perfect test for us, from the weather and from the opponent, overall I'm satisfied," Nagelsmann said (1). Oliver Baumann also saw minutes in goal. Antonee Robinson was among those who lined up for the Americans. One concern: the match marked the end of the road for young prospect Lennart Karl, whose World Cup dream ended when he tore a muscle fiber, though Lothar Matthäus believes the setback can ultimately strengthen his character.

France clash looms in the Round of 16

Here's what keeps a host nation up at night. If the bracket shakes out a certain way, Germany could face France in the Round of 16 (8). That's a nightmare draw for a team carrying home expectations, and it makes every group stage result count double. No one wants to stumble into second place and walk into Kylian Mbappé.

Bayern shut down Kane-to-Barcelona talk

Relax. Christian Falk has shot down the rumor that Bayern Munich are ready to sell Harry Kane to Barcelona for €80m. "It is NOT TRUE: Bayern are ready to sell Harry Kane to Barcelona for €80m. FC Bayern do not want to sell the fantastic Kane!" he said (5). The club has already started contract extension talks with the England captain. Meanwhile, reports suggest Bayern are monitoring 19-year-old Croatian defender Luka Vušković, who is open to leaving Tottenham after an impressive loan at Hamburger SV (5).

Arsenal scout Leverkusen's Maza at the World Cup

Arsenal will be watching Ibrahim Maza closely during the tournament (7). The 20-year-old Bayer Leverkusen midfielder, who represents Algeria internationally, is also on the radar of Manchester City and Liverpool. A strong World Cup could trigger a summer move.

Chávez back at Bayern after Köln pass on buy option

Felipe Chávez returns to Bayern Munich after FC Köln declined to trigger their purchase option (4). The young prospect's future at the club is now uncertain, another loan or a permanent exit could follow this summer.

Fan reactions

Fans are already in pre-tournament mode, one supporter on Reddit is hunting for tips on getting a Germany jersey signed at the upcoming group match against Curaçao in Houston. Over in the match reaction threads, the 2–1 win over the USA has sparked plenty of debate, with US-based fans picking apart what went wrong and what it means for both teams heading into the World Cup. Join the discussion here.