AMSTERDAM - Germany and Netherlands went on goal sprees as they wrapped up World Cup qualification with resounding wins in their last European group matches on Monday.
"Every player played well today and worked like a dog," Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann told German broadcaster ZDF.
Both European giants needed only to draw to be sure of reaching the global footballing showpiece in the United States, Canada and Mexico. Instead, both went on the attack.
Germany took early control as they beat Slovakia 6-0 in Leipzig. The Netherlands took longer to pull away before overcoming Lithuania 4-0 in Amsterdam.
Slovakia finished second in Group A. Poland, who survived a scare to win 3-2 in Malta, ended up second to the Dutch in Group G. Second spot secures a place in the 16-team European play-offs in March.
Northern Ireland's 1-0 win over Luxembourg in Belfast could not lift them out of third in Group A but they will make the play-offs because of their Nations League performance.
In Group L, Croatia, already assured of first place, scored twice in the last 18 minutes to cone from behind and win 3-2 away to Montenegro. The Czech Republic, in second, slaughtered visiting Gibraltar 6-0.
In Leipzig, four times winners Germany started the night level on points with opponents Slovakia atop Group A but with an edge in goal difference. Slovakia, who beat Germany earlier in qualifying, created some threatening moments but could not take them.
Nick Woltemade headed the Germans into an 18th minute lead. Once Serge Gnabry added a second 11 minutes later, the hosts were in total control. Leroy Sane scored twice before half time and substitutes Ridle Baku and Assan Ouedraogo struck in the second half.
In Amsterdam, Ronald Koeman's Dutch team entertained the 50,000 spectators as their high-tempo play constantly pinned Lithuania back in their own half.
Tijani Reijnders perfectly set up by Frenkie de Jong gave the hosts a 15-minute lead but the massed visiting defence and a spectacular first-half display by goalkeeper Edvinas Gertmonas held the Dutch at bay until the 58th minute.
Cody Gakpo added a second from the penalty spot before Xavi Simons and Donyell Malen struck in the next four minutes allowing Koeman to bring on five substitutes.
Like Woltemade, the 27-year-old Reijnders was excited to be heading to the World Cup. He did not make his Netherlands debut until after the 2022 Qatar finals.