Romania 0-1 Germany: Gnabry strikes again as giants extend perfect start

Germany stayed on course to qualify for next year's World Cup with ease after Serge Gnabry scored the only goal in a 1-0 away win over Romania on Sunday.

Gnabry finished off a simple but effective team move in the 16th minute as Antonio Rudiger found Kai Havertz on the right flank with a lobbed pass. Havertz played Gnabry in behind the Romania defence for a simple finish.

Germany could easily have scored more. Leroy Sane sliced a shot wide from right in front of goal, and Romania goalkeeper Florin Nita had a strong game with impressive saves from Gnabry and Ilkay Gundogan.

Romania showed little attacking intent for most of the game but Germany's missed chances kept the hosts in contention, and they could have salvaged a draw late on.

Substitute George Puscas got into a good position in the 87th but his shot was an easy save for Manuel Neuer. Nicolae Stanciu hit the side netting soon after.

After beating Iceland at home on Thursday, Germany has now defeated both of the other teams in Group J which have played at a World Cup before.

That continues Germany's rebuild after a 6-0 Nations League loss to Spain in November and a return to form under coach Joachim Low, whose 15 years in charge will end after the European Championship this year.

'If you can criticize something, then maybe converting the chances,' Low told broadcaster RTL. 'The important thing is that we have the three points here and overall you can be satisfied. We can build on that.'

Germany shares leadership of the group with Armenia, which beat Iceland 2-0. Armenia has won its opening two games ahead of hosting Romania on Wednesday.