Germany see off Northern Ireland for first qualifying win | OneFootball

Germany steadied the ship in their World Cup qualifying campaign with a 3-1 win over Northern Ireland in Frankfurt, though the result came with more sighs of relief than cheers of dominance.

Julian Nagelsmann’s side had opened with a shock defeat to Slovakia, leaving them under early pressure in Group A. This victory moves them level on points with the Irish but still trailing Slovakia, who remain perfect after two games.

The nerves were obvious from the start, despite an early breakthrough. Just six minutes in, Serge Gnabry broke clear on the counter and finished with trademark composure. Yet instead of settling into a rhythm, Germany grew ragged, gifting Northern Ireland space and belief.

The visitors duly punished them. From a corner, Isaac Price ghosted in unmarked at the far post and fired past Oliver Baumann to make it 1-1 at the break.

Nagelsmann rang the changes in the second half, and the substitutes made the difference. Nadiem Amiri restored the lead midway through the half, capitalising on a mix-up between goalkeeper Bailey Peacock-Farrell and his defence after Maximilian Beier’s clever run dragged players out of position.

Minutes later, the contest was wrapped up in style. Florian Wirtz stepped up over a free-kick and curled it beautifully into the top corner, sparking celebrations tinged with relief around the stadium.

Germany have their first win on the board, but the stumbles in the opening 45 minutes will keep questions lingering over Nagelsmann’s men.