Germans expecting qualified success

By their faults you shall judge them.

World champions Germany came to Dublin’s leafy Ballsbridge hotel belt, and by the end of their pre-match press conference, it was clear that Ireland and tonight’s Group D qualifier was well down the list of issues they faced this week.

While Martin O’Neill is sweating over a squad decimated by injuries, suspensions and the delegation of parenting duties, the Germans are mildly exercised with how their superstars will be after a dramatic weekend.