Convincing win against the Netherlands

The Germany U21 national team, managed by Horst Hrubesch, started their EURO 2015 preparation with a convincing 3-1 victory over the Netherlands.

Amin Younes (11’), Dominque Heintz (21’) and Schalke’s Max Meyer scored the goals for Germany with Feyenoord's (79’) scoring the consolation goal for the Netherlands. Germany, who have qualified for next year's European Championship, are aiming to qualify for the semi-finals of the tournament, which will see them qualify for the 2016 Olympics as well. On Tuesday, they face the Czech Republic in Prague (17:30 CET) - who they will also play in next summer's tournament.

“The first half was really strong. We weren't as good in the second-half but deserved the victory. We are happy with the team, there is a lot of potential,” said Hansi Flick, who is the sporting director at the DFB. “We played great football in the first half; it was an enjoyable performance and we could have scored more goals.”

Niersbach and Flick spectators in the Audi-Sportpark

The Germany team started on the front foot and had two chances to take the lead within the first 10 minutes through Meyer (3’) and Philipp Hofmann (7’). Younes opened the scoring four minutes later after playing a tidy one-two with Philipp Hofmann.

Germany maintained the upper hand after going in front and doubled their lead ten minutes through Heintz's spectacular effort. Max Meyer's solo effort put the icing on the cake for Germany, who put in a stunning first-half performance in Ingolstadt.

The Germany defence, which included debutant Niklas Süle (1899 Hoffenheim), were rarely challenged. FC Barcelona goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen's only save came from Vincent Janssen's 28th minute shot.

The Netherlands had a strong spell straight after the break as Germany failed to find their rhythm. Despite this, the victory was never in doubt and the lead could have been added to: Yunus Malli, Maximilian Arnold and Hofmann all came close to grabbing a third.

New look squad for Hrubesch

Germany U21 have now won nine out of their 13 matches under Hrubesch, who was without some of his key players: among them Kevin Volland, Emre Can, Jonas Hofmann and Rani Khedira

The game against the Netherlands was Germany's first friendly ahead of next summer's European Championship. The draw for the group stages was made earlier this month; Germany have matches against the Czech Republic, Denmark and Serbia. Qualification for the semi-finals would see Germany also qualify for the football tournament at the 2016 Olympics in Rio.