Germany keep up pressure for top spot

Germany 4 Cyprus 0

Germany maintained the pressure on the Czech Republic in the race for top spot in Group D courtesy of a 4-0 win over Cyprus.

Bayern Munich pair Miroslav Klose and Lukas Podolski were both on target either side of half time after Clemens Fritz had given Germany a second-minute lead.

Thomas Hitzlsperger then added a fourth in the 82nd minute as Germany claimed their eighth win in the group.

It took Germany on to 26 points – level with Czech Republic.

Germany were quick out of the blocks and celebrating their first goal after less than 120 seconds as Podolski’s determination paid off, allowing him to cross the ball back from the goal line for Fritz’s far-post header.

Klose then added a second after 20 minutes, accepting a pass from the selfless Fritz in a central position and firing comfortably into the goal from eight yards.

Germany were in control of the game and Podolski was their danger man, but despite his comfort in possession and ease at unlocking the Cypriot defence, he was not bagging the goals.

That changed eight minutes into the second half, though, when he was set up by his team mate Klose to score Germany’s third.

Klose’s low cross from the right was met just in front of the goalkeeper by Podolski, who deflected the ball in despite more than a hint of offside.

And the impressive Podolski turned provider again for the final goal in the 82nd minute.

He again made a determined run to the goal line and squared for Hitzlsperger, who had a simple tap-in to complete the scoring.

Germany goalkeeper Jens Lehmann was rarely called into action, but he kept his concentration to make an excellent reflex save five minutes from time to ensure a clean sheet.