European football heavyweights Germany thrashed Northern Ireland 2-0 in a Group C 2018 World Cup qualification clash.

Die Mannschaft are now the favourites to qualify from the group. Former Real Madrid star Sami Khedira and Arsenal summer target Julian Draxler inspired the Germans to the victory over the Irish side.

The visitors scored the first through Draxler. The young talent curled home a stunning effort before Khedira got another four minutes later. Germany had lots of chances to raise the goals margin but they failed to worsen the embarrassment on their hosts. Man City summer addition Ilkay Gundogan threw away an effort and Khedira lost an opportunity to grab a brace.

The Martin O’Neill-led side put up a decent show but they couldn’t handle the German machines. However, they remain set to pick up the runners-up spot in the group, despite being three points behind Azerbeijan.

Germany have claimed maximum points from three games played so far. Full backs Jonas Hector and Joshua Kimmich played high up the pitch during the affair. The attack was relentless, so it didn’t take long for Germany to get the goals. O’Neill would definitely not be happy with the way the second goal was conceded. Mats Hummels won a header from the corner which Khedira converted effortlessly.

Jamie Ward had a chance in the left side but failed to get the goal. The Burton Albion striker could only manage a kick that was easy for Bayern goalkeeper Manuel Neuer to pick up. Mario Gotze also had an opportunity but it was ruled out of play. Germany played a lot of long range shots and they sent crosses into dangerous places from a wide area in a bid to wear out the Irish players. O’Neill will be happy that the goals conceded were not more, and that Czech Republic played a goalless draw with Azerbaijan.