Germany cruise into finals

Germany look one of the leading contenders for the UEFA European Under-17 Championship after clinching qualification with their third three-goal win in as many Elite round Group 1 games.

Sell-out crowd
Having already beaten Greece and Scotland 4-1, Germany took on a Republic of Ireland side also on six points but without key midfielder James McCarthy due to a thigh strain. With a sell-out 7,500 crowd behind them in Nordhorn, Germany were on top from the off and Kevin Wolze hit the post in the 27th minute, though defender Konstantin Rausch then had to be alert to deny Sean Scannell on the counterattack with a crucial saving tackle.

Knoll clinchers
It was goalless at the break, but eight minutes into the second half Gareth Matthews brought down Germany winger Denis Dowidat in the Irish box and Sascha Bigalke converted the penalty. Ireland needed a win due to Germany’s superior goal difference, but two minutes from the end substitute Marvin Knoll was set up by Rausch and made it two, and he added his second and the home side's third in added time.

Irish praise
Victorious coach Paul Schomann can now look forward to next Wednesday’s draw in Brussels, and the final tournament in Belgium from 2-13 May, Germany having reached the last four in 2006. Ireland coach Sean McCaffrey has again seen his side just miss out at the final hurdle, but said: "The best team won the game, Germany were the best team here this week. I was very pleased with the tremendous effort our lads gave. The 3-0 scoreline was probably a bit lop-sided but we played with great enthusiasm and can be proud of our efforts."