Germany crush Azeris to go seven points clear
BAKU: Andre Schuerrle scored twice and set up another goal as world champions Germany cruised to a comfortable 4-1 victory over Azerbaijan yesterday to stay on track for a spot in next year’s World Cup in Russia with a seven-point lead in Group C.
First- half goals from Schuerrle, Thomas Mueller and Mario Gomez put the visitors in control of the game in Baku.
Schuerrle’s double gave the Germans their fifth win in five qualifying matches and stretch their unbeaten run on the road in World Cup qualifiers to 44.
They are top of the group on 15 points. Group winners automatically qualify for the World Cup. “We were at times a bit too comfortable, but at the decisive moments we were there,” Schuerrle told reporters.
The 26-year-old winger, who has failed to hold down a starting spot at Borussia Dortmund this season, enjoyed his rare start for Germany.
“It’s all about trust. I feel very good here with the team and the coach gives me the trust I need,” said Schuerrle.
The Czech Republic are second in Group C on eight points after their demolition of San Marino.
Schuerrle made the most of his chance, tapping in after 19 minutes following good work down the wing from Jonas Hector. Coach Joachim Loew made seven changes to the team that beat England 1-0 in their friendly earlier last week.
The Germans conceded their first goal of the campaign when Dmitrij Nazarov sneaked into the box and fired in the equaliser in the 30th against the run of play.
Azerbaijan’s joy was shortlived, with Schuerrle poun- cing on a defensive error to send Mueller through, and the attacking midfielder had no trouble rounding the keeper to put the visitors back into the driving seat in the 36th. Gomez headed in their third on the stroke of half-time.
The Azeris failed to mount any serious challenge in the second half, with Germany content to control possession and set the pace.Schuerrle completed their win with a powerful shot from 12 metres out. – Reuters