FLYING TO THE US

GERMANY and Netherlands went on goal sprees as they wrapped up World Cup qualification with groot wins in their last European group matches on Monday.

Both European giants needed only to draw to be sure of reaching the global footballing showpiece in the United States, Canada and Mexico. Instead, both went on the attack.

Germany took early control as they klapped Slovakia 6-0 in Leipzig. The Netherlands took longer to pull away before overcoming Lithuania 4-0 in Amsterdam.

Slovakia finished second in Group A. Poland, who survived a scare to win 3-2 in Malta, ended up second to the Dutch in Group G. Second spot secures a place in the 16-team European playoffs in March.

Northern Ireland’s 1-0 win over Luxembourg in Belfast could not lift them out of third in Group A, but they will make the playoffs because of their Nations League performance.

In Group L, Croatia, already assured of first place, scored twice in the last 18 minutes to come from behind and win 3-2 away to Montenegro. The Czech Republic, in second, slaughtered visiting Gibraltar 6-0.

In Leipzig, four-time winners Germany started the night level on points with opponents Slovakia atop Group A but with an edge in goal difference.

Slovakia, who beat Germany earlier in qualifying, created some threatening moments but could not take them.

Nick Woltemade headed the Germans into an 18th minute lead. Once Serge Gnabry added a second 11 minutes later, the hosts were in total control.

Leroy Sane scored twice before halftime and substitutes Ridle Baku and Assan Ouedraogo struck in the second half.

In Amsterdam, Tijani Reijnders perfectly set up by Frenkie de Jong gave the Netherlands a 15-minute lead.

Cody Gakpo added a second from the penalty spot in the 58th minute before Xavi Simons and Donyell Malen struck in the next four minutes.

The European teams that have qualified for the World Cup are Croatia (Group L), England (Group K), France (Group D), Germany (Group A), Netherlands (Group G), Norway (Group I) and Portugal (Group F).