Toshack bows to Germany's class

Manager John Toshack said that Germany were just too good for his struggling Wales side in Cardiff on Saturday.

"We can't have any complaints about the score, they were superior to us in nearly every aspect of the game," said Toshack after the 2-0 loss.

"We were up against a stronger side physically, and that made a huge difference.

"They were first-class and we were never in the running. They were fitter and faster and deserved their victory."

News conference: Wales boss John Toshack

Bayern Munich striker Miroslav Klose put Germany ahead after just five minutes and made the game safe on the hour to cement his side's position at the top of Group D.

Wales rarely threatened, with Germany goalkeeper Jens Lehmann forced to make just one save.

"It is a difficult time of year for us because a lot of the players are not match-fit and some have played no competitive football this season and these things catch up on you," added Toshack.

"But at the same time we have one or two players who can perform better than that and that is disappointing."

Wales were hit by the late withdrawal of striker Craig Bellamy, and Toshack admitted that disrupted his plans.

"With Craig pulling out I reverted back to the system I used out in Bulgaria and played just one striker up front," he said.

"But it didn't really work and I think Craig's pace would have made a difference."

Germany now have 22 points in Group D, five ahead of their nearest rivals the Czech Republic.

"We are leaders of the group and we have to keep producing performances worthy of that," said Germany skipper Klose.

"But we have a big group of talented players and the team is developing really well. We are on the right path."

Source: BBC Sport