FIFA Men's World Cup

Germany start bid to retain World Cup crown with a big win

Published Jun. 30, 2017 6:28 p.m. ET

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Reigning world champions Germany got their World Cup 2018 qualifying campaign off to a flying start with a comfortable 3-0 win over Norway in Oslo.

Thomas Muller was the star of the show, scoring twice and setting up the third for Bayern Munich teammate Joshua Kimmich. The first goal came 15 minutes into the game when Thomas Muller pounced in on his rebound to give Germany the lead.

Joshua Kimmich drove home the second, after Muller found him with a wonderful pass. Muller ensured the victory at the hour mark with a header to double his tally. Norway goalkeeper Rune Jarstein prevented his side from going further behind with a string of good saves.

24 – @DFB_Team are unbeaten since 24 World Cup Qualifiying games (W19 D5). Dominant. #NORGER

— OptaFranz (@OptaFranz) September 4, 2016

But 3 goals were enough for the World Champions to show their intent, as they bid to retain their crown in Russia in two years time. Germany next face Czech Republic and Northern Ireland in October before travelling to San Marino in November.

England strike lucky

England were not as spectacular as Germany, but got the job done as they edged past Slovakia. After being frustrated for 94 minutes, England finally broke through 5 minutes into stoppage time when midfielder Adam Lallana squeezed home the all important goal. It was new coach Sam Allardyce’s first game managing his country.

And it could have been an embarrassing start to his tenure as England failed to score past 10 men Slovakia. After Martin Skrtel was sent off for the hosts, England dominated possession, but were largely pedestrian and didn’t muster a shot on target till the 65th minute. But their hard work finally paid off, when Adam Lallana struck from close range.

The win means that England start off their road to World Cup 2018 in the best possible manner, which could help them restore some confidence after a dismal showing in France in the summer, where they were eliminated by Iceland in the Euro 2016 Round of 16.