Rudy starts as Germany cruise to victory

Rudy lined up in a back three in front of Roman Weidenfeller, who was a busy man despite the emphatic nature of Germany’s win. The Hoffenheim star made a good start to the game and could have opened the scoring early on but Jordan Perez tipped his long-range effort over the bar. Joachim Löw’s men started the game strongly and nearly took the lead after 10 minutes but Perez kept out Bastian Schweinsteiger’s penalty. André Schürrle’s goal was the only thing separating the sides at the break.

The floodgates finally opened in the second half. Schürrle completed his hat-trick, Max Kruse picked up a brace, Karim Bellarabi grabbed his first international goal and Ilkay Gündogan netted to complete the rout. The 7-0 victory means that Germany are now second in Group D, just one point behind leaders Poland.

Löw’s side return to action on 4th September. They play Poland in Frankfurt and will be hoping to climb up to top spot.

Szalai and Bicakcic successful

Adam Szalai was involved for 77 minutes of Hungary’s narrow 1-0 victory in Finland. The TSG striker started the game but witnessed Zoltan Stieber’s 82nd minute winner from the dugout. Hungary (11 points) are third behind Romania (14) and Northern Ireland (13) in Group F and stand a good chance of reaching next year’s European Championship. They face Romania on 4th September.

Ermin Bicakcic was on the bench as Bosnia beat Israel 3-1 on Saturday. They currently have eight points and lie in second-to-last place in Group B. Wales top the group and are closely followed by Belgium. Bosnia’s next qualifier takes place in Belgium on 3rd September.

Copa America gets under way for Firmino

Brazil’s Copa America campaign starts on Sunday. Roberto Firmino hit the back of the net in the recent friendly against Honduras and stands a good chance of starting for the Selecao against Peru.