Northern Ireland put in a spirited display against Germany, but it wasn’t enough to cause an upset, eventually losing 2-0 to the European heavyweights.
Michael O’Neill’s side contained them in the first half, before the Germans eventually showed their class. Marcel Halstenberg netted just after the restart before Serge Gnabry finished the game in injury time.
A disappointing night for O’Neill’s side. (Photo By Ramsey Cardy/Sportsfile via Getty Images)
It was a valiant performance, with appearances for Aberdeen and Hearts stars Niall McGinn and Conor Washington.
McGinn and Washington both had a tough night in Northern Ireland
McGinn was hooked after an hour whilst Washington lasted until the 83rd minute. Neither attacker was able to make any sort of dent in the German armour.
The Aberdeen winger turned in a selfless display on left. He doubled up with Jamaal Lewis to limit the impact of Gnabry and tried to get forward when he could.
Washington missed a big chance. (Photo by Charles McQuillan – UEFA/UEFA via Getty Images)
Washington on the other hand had big chances to score. The ball broke to him after a poor Toni Kroos pass, putting him through one on one with Manuel Neur, but he hit it straight at the German.
He then failed to turn the ball into an empty net following a goalmouth scramble. He’ll rue missed chances after this match, as he really should have buried the two first half efforts.
Overall though Northern Ireland can be proud of their efforts. McGinn and Washington will now turn their focus to domestic action when Aberdeen take on St Johnstone and Hearts face Motherwell this weekend.