Defending champions Germany qualify for 2018 FIFA W’Cup

World Cup holders, Germany confirmed their qualification for next year’s edition in Russia by beating Northern Ireland 3-1 in Belfast on Thursday night.

The Germans made it nine wins from nine games with one game left in their Europe’s Group C qualifying series, leading the group with eight points clear.

Sebastian Rudy shot into the top corner in the second minute to put the 2014 champions ahead.

Sandro Wagner rifled home from the edge of the area about 20 minutes later before Joshua Kimmich scored four  minutes to stoppage time to put them 3-0 up.

Read also: Kane’s last-gasp winner secures World Cup ticket for England

Josh Magennis pulled one back for Northern Ireland with a 93rd-minute header as the hosts remained well-placed to make the play-offs.

Elsewhere in Europe, England also sealed their qualification for the tournament in Russia after defeating Slovenia 1-0 on Thursday.

As it stands, Germany alongside England, Brazil, Iran, Japan, Mexico, Belgium, Saudi Arabia, South Korea and hosts Russia are guaranteed to be at the tournament which will consist of 32 teams.

Germany go into their final group game at home to Azerbaijan on Sunday as Northern Ireland will also complete their campaign in Norway same day.

 

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