Germany stars slam ‘fans’ for Nazi chants

GERMANY players have blasted a hardcore group of “fans” for shouting Nazi-era chants during a World Cup qualifier as the world champions hope to secure a finals berth today.

Germany have three qualifiers left but can wrap up their place at next year’s tournament in Russia by beating Norway in Stuttgart if nearest rivals Northern Ireland fail to beat the Czech Republic the same night in Belfast.

However, the behaviour of a group of travelling fans in Friday’s 2-1 win against the Czechs in Prague has shocked Joachim Low’s team.

The chants were particularly embarrassing from a German perspective as they came on the anniversary of the invasion of Poland by Nazi Germany, which started World War II in 1939.

Mats Hummels’ late header in Prague maintained Germany’s perfect record of seven wins from seven World Cup qualifiers.

But the result was tainted by the repulsive chants, while German fans whistled during the minute’s silence before kickoff for two deceased Czech officials.

Chants of “Sieg Heil” (Hail Victory) from a block of German fans during the game were heard by the horrified players on the pitch.

Germany striker Timo Werner was also verbally abused by a 200-strong group of travelling supporters despite scoring the opening goal after four minutes. – AFP