Overview

• Julian Nagelsmann redeployed Joshua Kimmich into a hybrid right‑back/midfield role within a compact shape, and the captain responded with a brace in a controlled 4–0 victory.
• Serge Gnabry added a goal after David Raum’s early free kick as Germany produced greater intensity and counter‑pressing, key themes the coach wants to carry into Belfast.
• Germany lead Group A on goal difference with six points, level with Northern Ireland and Slovakia, and only the group winner secures direct qualification.
• Northern Ireland host on Monday after a 2–0 win over Slovakia, with BBC reporting added motivation from Nagelsmann’s prior assessment of their long‑ball approach.
• The DFB said Jamie Leweling has left camp with adductor issues and will not travel to Belfast, with Kevin Schade already called up as cover, while concerns over chance conversion persist despite the scoreline as Nagelsmann backed Florian Wirtz and Nick Woltemade.