PARIS: Germany and the Netherlands wrapped up their World Cup qualification in style with commanding wins on Monday.
Germany crushed Slovakia 6-0 in Leipzig. Nick Woltemade opened the scoring in the 18th minute, Serge Gnabry added a second, and Leroy Sané struck twice before halftime. Substitutes Ridle Baku and Assan Ouedraogo completed the rout.
“We showed incredible team spirit and pushed ourselves from the start,” said coach Julian Nagelsmann.
The Netherlands overcame a stubborn Lithuania 4-0 in Amsterdam. Tijani Reijnders scored first, set up by Frenkie de Jong, before Cody Gakpo converted a penalty.
Xavi Simons and Donyell Malen struck in quick succession, allowing coach Ronald Koeman to rotate five players. “Watching the last World Cup on the couch was one thing; this time it’s different,” said Reijnders.
Slovakia and Poland secured second spots in Groups A and G, earning play-off berths. Croatia came from behind to beat Montenegro 3-2, while the Czech Republic routed Gibraltar 6-0. Northern Ireland also reach the play-offs via Nations League performance.
Germany and the Netherlands now turn their attention to next year’s World Cup across the USA, Canada, and Mexico. – AFP
