Vargas scores for Chile - Die Mannschaft lose in Ireland

Germany needed just one point going into the Ireland game in order to secure EURO qualification. Joachim Löw left both Kevin Volland and Sebastian Rudy out of the starting line-up. They dominated the game for large periods and had good opportunities to score throughout the game, including an Özil goal disallowed for offside. At half time, the scores still stood at 0-0.

After the break, the Germans found it hard to break down the Irish defence. By the time Mats Hummels had had the best chance of the game in the 72nd minute, Shane Long had already put Ireland into the lead, breaking free from the away side’s defenders and firing the ball into the corner past Neuer. Jerome Boateng had an attempt from range, but it was saved.

Thomas Müller found himself with a lot of space in the box, but he missed the goal by a matter of centimetres. In the 84th minute, Volland was introduced, but the Hoffenheim player was unable to get the goal that would have secured qualification for Joachim Löw’s side. They will get another chance on Sunday though, when they face Georgia in Leipzig.

Vargas with crucial goal

Qualification for the World Cup in 2018 began perfectly for the Copa America champions Chile. They triumphed 2-0 against Brazil in their opening match. Jorge Sampaoli, the head coach, played Vargas from the very beginning, a decision that was duly vindicated.

After a goalless first 45 minutes, Vargas scored in the 72nd minute to give his side the lead. Arsenal FC’s Alexis Sanchez put the game to bed in the 88th minute making it 2-0. "I am very pleased as I have never beaten Brazil," said Vargas' coach after the game.

South Korea claim narrow win

South Korea will also be pleased with how their campaign has started, after TSG player Jin-Su Kim and Co. claimed their fourth win in Group G, beating Kuwait 1-0. The only goal came from Ja-Cheol Koo of FC Augsburg in the 12th minute. Hoffenheim’s full back watched the match from the bench, as South Korea extended their lead above Kuwait to four points.