Germany stormed into next year’s World Cup with a dominant 6-0 win over Slovakia, finishing top of their group and sending their opponents into the playoffs. Nick Woltemade opened the scoring before Serge Gnabry, Leroy Sané (twice), Ridle Baku and debutant Assan Ouédraogo completed the rout. Slovakia, who had beaten Germany earlier in qualifying, were overwhelmed from start to finish.
The Netherlands also booked their place at the finals with a comfortable 4-0 victory over Lithuania. Tijjani Reijnders scored before Cody Gakpo, Xavi Simons and Donyell Malen added goals in a one-sided second half. Poland secured a playoff place after a late Piotr Zielinski strike sealed a 3-2 win over Malta.
Northern Ireland closed their campaign with a flat 1-0 win over Luxembourg thanks to Jamie Donley’s first international goal from the penalty spot. Already playoff-bound Czech Republic thrashed Gibraltar 6-0, while group winners Croatia came from two goals down to beat Montenegro 3-2.
