Hofmann-inspired Germany overcome Faroes

Germany eased past the Faroe Islands to hit the ground running in 2015 UEFA European Under-21 Championship qualifying Group 6.

Once Moritz Leitner had broken the deadlock early on, there was no looking back for the 2009 champions and second-half strikes from Jonas Hofmann and Leonardo Bittencourt sealed a routine win, the third straight three-goal defeat for the away team.

Germany's opener, though finished by Leitner, owed much to splendid work by Kevin Volland, who retained possession in the box before picking out his team-mate to find the bottom corner. A confident Germany created a host more opportunities in the opening period, but Philipp Hofmann's profligacy and two fine saves by home goalkeeper Teitur Gestsson kept the score unchanged.

Philipp Hofmann was replaced by Jonas Hofmann after the break and the substitution proved inspired. The substitute finished Ozkan Yildirim's pass well at the back post shortly after his arrival, before playing a pivotal role as Bittencourt rounded off the scoring ten minutes from time.

"We controlled the match," said Germany coach Horst Hrubesch. "We were the better team tonight and I am satisfied with my boys. The only negative is that we did not put the contest to bed in the first half, despite many chances."

"The boys gave all they could; we had very strong opponents tonight," added Faroes coach Heđin Askham.