Northern Ireland v Germany ‘has the air of a final’ says Joachim Löw

• Michael O’Neill says team will face unbeaten Germany with sense of optimism
• Northern Ireland without Aaron Hughes for World Cup qualifier

Such is Michael O’Neill’s respect for Germany, who have not lost an away World Cup qualifier in 83 years, that he organised a 10 v six training session this week in preparation for the world champions’ visit to Windsor Park. Northern Ireland played as the 10, in case you were wondering. It reflects the success of his forensic methods, however, that respect between countries of such contrasting resource and achievement is mutual.

“This has the air of a final,” said Joachim Löw, the head coach who led Germany to their fourth World Cup title in Brazil and on to the verge of Russia with a flawless qualifying campaign of eight wins from eight. “It is first against second in the group. Northern Ireland have practically qualified for the play-offs and they can go top of this group. They will not play all-or-nothing football but they will definitely be risk-orientated because they have nothing to lose. They have exceeded expectations in many respects but they are where they are by rights. There’s a lot at stake and both teams know it.”

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