Germany remained firmly on top of Group A after a hard-fought 1-0 victory against Northern Ireland in a World Cup qualifier match on Monday. Striker Nick Woltemade scored the winning goal, ensuring a vital triumph for the four-time world champions at Belfast's Windsor Park.
Northern Ireland, undeterred by prior setbacks, posed significant challenges, even having a goal disallowed for offside. Yet it was Woltemade's shoulder-powered shot that made the difference, keeping Germany ahead on goal difference against Slovakia, who also secured a win over Luxembourg.
The match witnessed nail-biting moments, but Germany held strong, aided by goalkeeper Oliver Baumann's key saves. Despite intense pressure from the Irish side, Germany's focus on set-piece strategy and strategic plays led them to se