In a breathtaking display of attacking prowess, Bayern Munich star Serge Gnabry netted a stunning first-half hat-trick to propel Germany to a resounding 4-1 victory over Northern Ireland at the Merkur Spiel-Arena in Düsseldorf.
The German onslaught began early, with Gnabry opening the scoring in the 11th minute after a sublime pass from İlkay Gündoğan. The Arsenal academy graduate doubled the lead just 14 minutes later, capitalising on a defensive error to slot home calmly.
Gnabry completed his remarkable treble in the 38th minute, unleashing a powerful left-footed strike that left Northern Ireland goalkeeper Bailey Peacock-Farrell with no chance. The first-half demolition was a stark reminder of Germany's formidable firepower.
Michael O'Neill's side showed tremendous character after the break, pulling a goal back through an Jonny Evans header in the 57th minute. The visitors enjoyed a spirited period of possession, testing German goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen on several occasions.
However, any hopes of a dramatic comeback were extinguished when Niclas Füllkrug came off the bench to restore Germany's three-goal advantage with a clinical finish in the 73rd minute, assisted by the impressive Jamal Musiala.
The match served as crucial preparation for both nations ahead of upcoming European Championship qualifiers, with Germany demonstrating why they remain one of the most feared attacking units in international football.
