Azerbaijan vs Germany - Low wants Germany to secure World Cup spot

Posted Saturday, March 25, 2017 by PA

Joachim Low has urged Germany to maintain their perfect record in World Cup qualifying by beating Azerbaijan on Sunday.

Die Mannschaft have won each of their opening four games without conceding a goal to sit five points clear at the top of Group C.

Indeed, Low's troops have not leaked a goal since their 2-0 semi-final defeat to France at Euro 2016.

A fifth straight win in Baku would take them a step closer to Russia 2018 and Low has left his side in no doubt about his target.

Speaking at a pre-match press conference, the Germany boss said: "Our objective is clear. We want to secure qualification for the World Cup without dropping any points.

"That is why it is clear for us to achieve three points. We know that it is not easy because of the circumstances; the long journey, time shift and so on.

"But I am convinced that we will win the game if we go into the game with the right concentration."

Low confirmed that Mario Gomez would start up front against Azerbaijan while Sami Khedira will captain Germany in the absence of Manuel Neuer.

Marc-Andre ter Stegen, who kept a clean sheet in the friendly against England on Wednesday, is expected to retain his place in goal with Neuer suffering from a calf complaint.

Julian Weigl did not make the trip to Baku after picking up a knock to his left thigh against the Three Lions, while Mesut Ozil is a doubt with a back problem.

Juventus midfielder Khedira is wary of the improving Azerbaijan, but believes there is a growing feeling of "hunger" in the German squad.

He said: "Our concentration needs to be sharp and we have to play seriously.

"You can sense how much hunger there is in the team after we went out in the semi-finals of the Euros."

Azerbaijan's results have improved under Croatian coach Robert Prosinecki, who was appointed in December 2014, and the minnows currently lie third in Group C on seven points.

Prosinecki's side beat San Marino and Norway in their first two fixtures, but November's 4-0 defeat against Northern Ireland dented their three-game unbeaten run in qualification.

"The (Azerbaijan) team has developed tactically," Low added. "They won against Norway and drew 0-0 against Czech Republic.

"Seven points after four games is a good starting point. The players defend very well, are physically very fit and sturdy. They are also very motivated against Germany."