How Germany's players rated against Northern Ireland

Marc-André ter Stegen — 6

Northern Ireland did not have many shots on target, so the Barcelona keeper didn't have much to do. However, he did come off his line when Corry Evans was left unmarked on the left side of the penalty area to stop the Northern Ireland winger from getting a clean shot off.

Joshua Kimmich — 8

He once again provided terrific service from the right, setting up Sebastian Rudy's goal and scoring one himself late on.

Jerome Boateng — 4

For a quick central defender, Jerome Boateng was a little slow on Thursday. That was particularly apparent when Conor Washington squared him up and fired a shot off the crossbar.

Mats Hummels — 6

He cleaned up a lot of people's messes and made Kyle Lafferty a non-factor. Switched off at the end of the game when Josh Magennis scored a consolation goal, but by then it didn't matter.

Marvin Plattenhardt — 2

Making just his second start for Germany, Plattenhardt didn't seem on the same wavelength as some of his teammates and struggled to beat the first man with his crosses, even on a free kick. His defending was worse – he did not even slow down the Northern Ireland wingers he was supposed to stop. Didn't look up to the challenge of replacing Jonas Hector.

Leon Goretzka — 4

Normally a more central player, Goretzka shifted a little more to the right in Löw's compact midfield. He therefore did not see much of the action, although his movement was still strong.

Toni Kroos — 7

Still the man who directs the play in midfield, taking defenders out of the action with terrific switches of play. Had he taken a late chance as well as Sebastian Rudy took an early one, his rating may have been even higher.

Sebastian Rudy — 9

A game is always easier when a team has the lead after a minute and a half. Sebastian Rudy provided that, and did a lot of dirty work in midfield to boot.

Julian Draxler — 3

Had an embarrassing volley attempt from the top of the penalty area and was dispossessed more than once. That is not what you want from a winger.

Thomas Müller — 8

He looked much like his old self, slotting in behind Sandro Wagner and even controlling the tempo of the play at times.

Sandro Wagner — 9

He did exactly what Löw wanted him to do – hold up the ball, combine with his teammates and finish off chances. The turn for his goal was also spectacular.

Substitutes:

Emre Can (Goretzka) — 6 Came on again after an hour and provided some stability. He also set up Kroos late in the game, but Kroos couldn't keep his shot down.

Leroy Sane (Draxler) — 7 His pace was electric off the bench, and he kept a chance alive that lead to Kimmich's goal.

Lars Stindl (Müller) — N/A Replaced Müller late and did not have time to contribute much.