Euro 2016 qualifiers

1. Lafferty stabs home late in injury time
2. Northern Ireland one win from Euro 2016
3. FT: Republic of Ireland 1-0 Georgia
4. Irish third in Group D with 15 points
5. FT: Scotland 2-3 Germany
6. Scots fourth in Group D with 11 points

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And that is that for another night of drama in Europe.

'Pure theatre' was Northern Ireland boss Michael O'Neill's verdict.

There's no better line to round things out. See you tomorrow!

No nonsense

The reality is we were the better team and created more chances. Yes, I expect to win in Ireland next month. Of course.

Joachim LowGermany manager

Empics

The remaining games

Republic of Ireland host Germany on 8 October, before heading to Poland three days later. Tough? I'll say.

Scotland, meanwhile, have Poland at home before ending at Gibraltar.

That could be the key game...

Pat Nevin

Ex-Scotland international on BBC Radio 5 live

The most likely thing, I think, is that Republic of Ireland will lose to both Poland and Germany in their last two games so Scotland can still finish third. This ain't finished yet.

Reuters

Scotland are six points off the top two with two games to go. And four points behind third-placed Republic of Ireland.

Anyone sharing Gordon Strachan's positive outlook? 

Gordon believes

More from Gordon Strachan : "Let's get this straight: we're still in this. Trust me, we're still in this..."  

'We can be proud'

Scotland boss Gordon Strachan: "There's a couple of times in my managerial career where I get angry or sad. Actually, at this point, you feel for the players.

"Whatever you think, over two games they've put in some amount of work. Sometimes football is more than what you drink; what you eat and how you train.

"It's inside you. No-one can tell me that every one of those guys has something inside them that drives them on.

"To stand up, after going behind to the world champions [twice] and to keep coming back, keep plugging away - they can be proud of their performances."

Reuters

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Poland were 8-0 up until the last three minutes...

Reuters

All about the play-offs

Finishing third puts a team into the play-offs - unless you are the best third-placed side. When you go through automatically.

Confused? This is from the Uefa rule book.....

Article 14 Qualification for the final tournament

14.01 The nine group winners, the nine group runners-up and the best third-placed team qualify directly for the final tournament.

14.02 To compare the rankings between the qualifying groups and to determine the best third-placed team, the results against the teams in sixth place are discarded. The following criteria are applied, in the order given, to determine the rankings: a. higher number of points obtained; b. superior goal difference; c. higher number of goals scored; d. higher number of away goals scored; e. fair play conduct in all group matches as defined in Annex C.5.1; f. position in the Uefa national team coefficient rankings (see Annex B.1.2.b)

Plenty more reaction to tonight's games coming up. Don't go away.

In the meantime, Andy Murray is just getting under way in his latest US Open clash.

Follow that one over here.

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Pat Nevin

Ex-Scotland international on BBC Radio 5 live

"Kyle Lafferty is a good player but he is not a great player. For a player of his ability, I think he has done really, really well, particularly for Northern Ireland."

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'Is this Lafferty's time?'

BBC Radio 5 Live

Former Northern Ireland defender Gerry Taggart: "In the past for Northern Ireland putting away the weaker teams has always been their downfall because they have to be on the front foot.

"They struggled tonight, especially in the right back area. As the game went on, they struggled to cope with the power and pace.

"The problem with Kyle Lafferty over the last few years is maybe off the pitch was taking up too much of his time. Once managers and clubs work you out like that, they will give a few chances and then come down on you.

"Look at Kyle's career, for whatever reason clubs haven't been able to make him concentrate solely on what happens on the pitch. Maybe this is his time."

As it stands

Pick the bones out of this one.

Germany are all but there, with a win from their last two games enough to triple-stamp qualification.

Poland were always going to beat Gibraltar and stay second, while it looks a long way home from here for Scotland. 

BBC Sport

As it stands

Still looking good for Northern Ireland - thanks to Kyle Lafferty's last-ditch heroics...

BBC Sport

Pat Nevin

Ex-Scotland international on BBC Radio 5 live

"Absolutely Scotland can nick third still. I expected Scotland to get zero points tonight. If Republic of Ireland don't get any more points, which would be unsurprising and Scotland draw with Poland and get a point against Gibraltar, they would get third. I think that is fairly likely. Ireland still have to do something very special."

'It was pure theatre'

Nerve wracking to say the least. We dominated the game first half but Hungary came into it. It was a mistake for the goal and a red card but then we saw true grit. It's a massive point for us. At 1-0 down our head-to-head with Hungary was still better as we scored two in Budapest so we couldn't go too gung-ho. It wasn't vintage, but it was pure theatre. I've never seen a player booked twice in one incident and I don't agree with it.

Michael O'NeillNorthern Ireland manager

Reuters

Kyle Lafferty added in his post-match interview that referee Cuneyt Cakir explained the Chris Baird red card "two or three times" clearly out on the pitch. No complaints from the Norwich striker - who is banned himself for the Greece game.

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Nick in Stratford upon Avon on text:  As a recently trained referee I can tell you it is in the laws of football that you cannot give two yellow cards within the same period of play. Advantage played so only the most serious offence punished. 

Anyone?

'The champagne is on ice'

Great honesty...

We have two games left and we need one more push. The fans came here for a party but the champagne is on ice. The squad are willing to fight to the end. This team doesn't know when to stop working. My yellow card was stupid, I was too eager. It was the right decision, my own stupidity.

Kyle LaffertyNorthern Ireland striker

Reuters

Conor McNamara

BBC Radio 5 live commentator

"The damage for Strachan's team was done in Georgia. This was always going to be a difficult task and Scotland didn't let themselves down. It was just the class of Germany that told."

So a win at home to Greece will send Northern Ireland through.

They won 2-0 out in Greece last October. The same again and it's party time in France. 

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BBC Radio 5 Live

Former Northern Ireland defender Gerry Taggart: "Greece are going to pick a point up between now and the campaign. It opens it all up. This is a three-team tournament to qualify. But the pressure is on Hungary, they know they have to win their two games."

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Mark Chapman

BBC Sport presenter

PA

"Goalkeeper Mike McGovern felt as though he could not join in the celebrations. He was heading towards the changing room but the subs and the backroom staff made sure he did not leave the pitch.

"None of the fans have left. It was like Hungary have lost a cup final"

Alistair Bruce-Ball

BBC Radio 5 live commentator

"Had Northern Ireland lost that game it was right in Hungary's hands, with the two games they have left. That was a big goal for Northern Ireland."

PA

Scotland gave it a go - at times - but they were just nowhere near Germany.

Read full reaction here.

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What a huge, huge goal from Kyle Lafferty!

The man who can't get near a game for Norwich has got seven goals in qualifying.

It means that a win against Greece, at home, in the next game would put Northern Ireland through. 

Reuters

Alistair Bruce-Ball

BBC Radio 5 live commentator

"They are celebrating here as if they have qualified for the tournament. All you can see is men,women and children bouncing up and down waving their scarves.

"They will need a win against Greece but it all looked lost."

FULL-TIME

Reuters

FULL-TIME

An EVEN bigger point!

FULL-TIME

A big win.

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BBC Radio 5 Live

Former Northern Ireland defender Gerry Taggart:"Blow your whistle ref, I can't take it any more. Nothing more than they deserve."

Reuters

GOAL - Northern Ireland 1-1 Hungary

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What a goal that is for Northern Ireland! In the nick of time!

A corner is hit deep, Niall McGinn lashes in a shot from 18 yards which Gabor Kiraly should hold, he's held them for 20 years or more.

But he can't hold it, and Kyle Lafferty, hero of this campaign, reacts well to hammer into the roof of the net!

GREAT SAVE!

Cracking drive from sub James McClean, a bucket full of curl on it but it's just about tipped over...

INJURY TIME

FIVE MINUTES added on! Groans from the travelling support...

Reuters

Goal for Gibraltar!

Jake Gosling has bagged for Gibraltar! Poland's lead cut to 8-1... 

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Robin Smit : Both challenges were absolutely shocking from Baird but the referee should only give one yellow as he only saw one challenge.

Andrew Priestley:  I agree with the referee on that one, even as a NI fan. Two clear yellow cards for Chris Baird. Absolute stupidity from him.

At the risk on inflaming the situation. that was possibly actually good refereeing from Cuneyt Cakir. Careful how you spell that one.

THREE MINUTES left. 

What went on there then?

Alistair Bruce-Ball

BBC Radio 5 live commentator

"Chris Baird committed a foul earlier in the move. The ref played an advantage, booked him for that, and then booked him for a shocking foul later in the move."

Scotland have barely seen the ball since the Germans went ahead. The world champions looking as good as you'd expect. Is it all over for Scotland now?

EPA

Into the last five minutes in Dublin, where there is no such drama. The Republic looking good for a big win. 

BBC Radio 5 Live

Former Northern Ireland defender Gerry Taggart: "That is a joke. You can't raise your arms. It is a red card offence. What is the point in the official being behind the goal."

Reuters

YELLOW CARD

I predicted red cards an hour or so ago and we could have another one here as Tamas Priskin throws a shoulder at Gareth McAuley. He is booked, as McAuley rather poorly throws himself to the floor. Get up!

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BBC Radio 5 Live

Former Northern Ireland defender Gerry Taggart: "I don't know what to say. Shocking decision.I don't know what the referee has seen. Just goes to say referees can spoil a game of football."

RED CARD - Chris Baird

Reuters

Chaos ensues as Northern Ireland's night goes from poor to awful.

Chris Bairdis booked for a foul and then shown a second one instantly. Is that a case of mistaken identity? The referee seems to indicate that Baird had fouled a man earlier, he played advantage, and then picked up a second.

The second challenge was a shocker. Northern Ireland down to 10 men. their big night going south fast. 

BBC Radio 5 Live

Former Northern Ireland defender Gerry Taggart: "Northern Ireland have to pick the tempo up and get right in their faces. The only way they are going to get back in this is by pressing the life out of the Hungarians."

Reuters

Ten to go

Into the last 10 minutes around Europe. It's in the balance in all three games...

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Paddy: Heartbreaker. Poor Michael... Need a goal now boys!!

Andrew Priestley: A real sickener for Northern Ireland.

Reuters

As it stands

How tight do you want it?

The top two qualify automatically for the finals in France.

BBC Sport

Unfortunately for Michael McGovern, he definitely will see that again.

Hungary's last two games are against Faroe Islands and Greece, How expensive could that error prove to be?

BBC Radio 5 Live

Reuters

Former Northern Ireland defender Gerry Taggart: "Mike McGovern will never want to see that again as long as he lives. It is a horrible mistake. When he came for the ball he looked like he had comfortably got it but one of the attackers running across his eye line has put him off."

GOAL - Northern Ireland 0-1 Hungary

Oh dear! A shocker from Northern Ireland keeper Michael McGovern as he lets Balazs Dzsudzsak's free-kick through his hands, leaving Richard Guzmics with a tap-in.

Reuters

In Belfast, it is Hungary who are ending the game strongly. David Healy, hero of 10 years ago, gives the thumbs up from the stands but it is Hungary pushing hard...

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Reuters

That goal is very bad news for Scotland.

Republic of Ireland are currently in third place in Group D, four clear of Scotland and two behind Poland. With two games to go.

GOAL - Republic of Ireland 1-0 Georgia

Take a bow Jeff Hendrick! Brilliant, brilliant play from the Derby man ignites a game which was threatening to peter out. He beats one man on the left, comes inside, nutmegs another, goes around another and then puts it on a plate for Jon Walters, a yard out. He tackles the ball home and the hosts are ahead.

Party time in Dublin! Well, it always is. But more reason!

PA

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Tom Unter: Scotland tonight are like that kid at school that would work so hard only to be bested by someone with half the effort.

Connor McMeekin: When you can't watch your country in their heroic attempt to qualify for the Euros you can feel stuck anywhere!

Max Baggins-Craig: So far am bored, frustrated & drained (not jus cos I've ran out of beer). Hopefully some subs will do something.

Reuters

CLOSE!

Zoltan Gera's legs may be going but he can still whack a ball. Brilliant strike from 25 yards, plenty of swerve and dip on it and it flies just wide. 

Germany have got plenty in the tank, don't you worry about that. Mesut Ozil and Thomas Muller are involved again, neat play, the lay-off is into the arc of Bastian Schweinsteiger and he thumps a drive at goal. Dave Marshall watches it all the way and fists over the top. 

Pat Nevin

Ex-Scotland international on BBC Radio 5 live

"Scotland are working hard. Shaun Maloney has been taken off but it is probably too late. He was probably at fault for the last two goals, he had nothing in the tank and should have been taken off at half time."

BBC Radio 5 Live

Former Northern Ireland defender Gerry Taggart: "It is just that composure, that final lack of pass that Northern Ireland are missing."

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CLOSE!

The Stoke connection almost does the job. Glenn Whelan's shot is going wide until Jon Walters feathers on a header, but Nukri Revishvili gets down smartly to save at the post. 

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Lovely play from first Oliver Norwood and then Steven Davis in midfield threatens to open up the Hungarians but in a scene seen all too often tonight, the final pass is just not there.

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Dek Hunter from Scotland on text:  Booked Disney Land Paris for me and the family. #youneverknow

In a scene which mirrors that in Belfast, the hosts in green are dominant against opposition in red, but can't score.

Looks like a pair of 0-0s with half an hour to go. Anyone find the breakthrough? 

Reuters

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Andrew Kemp:  Scotland scoring can only ever have something to do with luck. Never convincing up front

Ah, thanks for that one David. The old head-to-head rule melting my brain again.

And that's the third person saying they're 'stuck' somewhere lovely abroad. Leave it out!

You get stuck in Basingstoke, or Goole. Not Palermo and Barcelona.

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David Nicholas: Northern Ire. wouldn't need a win if they draw tonight. 2 draws would suffice, since they'd win the head-to-head vs. Hungary.

Paul Vance: Stuck in Palermo. Nowhere showing the game. Relying on god old BBC. Spirit of '82!

EPA

BBC Radio 5 Live

Former Northern Ireland defender Gerry Taggart: "Hungary are vulnerable in the air at the back. The last three times the ball has been in Hungary's area, Northern Ireland have won it."

GOAL - Scotland 2-3 Germany

A peach of a goal puts Germany ahead for the third time. Thomas Muller adds an assist to his two goals as he plays a deft reverse pass back to Ilkay Gundogan, and the Dortmund man cleverly steers left-footed int off the base of the post. Clinical. Quality. 

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Jonny Evans heads over the top as the home fans continue their ceaseless backing.

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N.J.P:  A Welshman, a Scot and an Irishman in our house. Our Czech and English ladies are just laughing at us

Not the punchline I was expecting

DISALLOWED GOAL

Thomas Muller has two goals, and now Mario Gotze has had two disallowed. Again he's offside before planting a header into the net.

Reuters

Zoltan Gera with a leap regular attendees at The Hawthorns will remember well, up smartly at the back post to plant a header narrowly wide. Chris Brunt then has to be alive to clear another good cross as Hungary step it up. 

Remember, a goal and Northern Ireland are through. They look a threat from set plays and when Gareth McAuley nods one down into the box Kyle Lafferty is inches away from meeting it with a flick. So close. 

Germany out of the blocks fast in the second half. Can Scotland keep in the game?

Reuters

CLOSE!

Great feet from Seamus Coleman, beats two men and then chips a cross to the back post. It's made for Niall Quinn, just 15 years too late. As it is, the ball drifts harmlessly out of touch. 

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Andrew  on text:  You're being a bit harsh with the ankle description, McArthur's goal was a stunning piece of skill. 

To be fair Andrew, it did hit his ankle...

KICK-OFF

We are back under way. Any one stepping up to their respective plates?

PA

SUBSTITUTION

Shane Long is on for the Republic - the only surprise that he is instead of - not as well as - Robbie Keane. 

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Kyle Utterson:  Brilliant character from Scotland and get the feeling tonight could be a famous night for at least one of the British teams.

On a serious note, has anyone, from any nation, booked flights and/or accommodation for next summer in France yet?

A hint of sarcasm perhaps? Germany have had 79 % of possession...

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As it stands

Northern Ireland remain top of the group but they won't be there yet. They would need a win from their final two games to make sure. 

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Merrick in Kristianstad, Sweden, on text:  Dammit, I need to be out the door for work at 5am and Scotland keep bringing this game back alive. A 2 goal cushion and I am packing it in. 

Pat Nevin

Ex-Scotland international on BBC Radio 5 live

"If Scotland get a point tonight and the other results in the group go as I expect, I think Scotland will qualify in third. Gordan Strachan would be delighted with a draw."

As it stands

EPA

Poland, 4-0 up at home to Gibraltar, are top of the group thanks to Scotland's equaliser(s).

It's then a four-point gap and looking like one of Scotland or Republic of Ireland into the play-offs. Tasty. 

'Phenomenal spirit'

Pat Nevin

Ex-Scotland international on BBC Radio 5 live

"Germany have had most of the play. Scotland sporadically getting up the field but what use they are making of it. Scotland have shown phenomenal spirit to get back into this, especially after what they have been through this week."

AP

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BBC Radio 5 Live

Former Northern Ireland defender Gerry Taggart: "Steady progress throughout the half. It is a nervy situation but as the game has gone on, their passing and movement has got better and better. The final ball has let them down."

Well then, four goals in one game and none in the other two. Who saw that comeback coming from Scotland? Not me, I must confess.

Manuel Neuer was very unconvincing for both goals, Scotland showing plenty of gumption. 

HALF-TIME

Reuters

HALF-TIME

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HALF-TIME

Reuters

Pat Nevin

Ex-Scotland international on BBC Radio 5 live

"I couldn't see it coming but from set pieces Scotland are looking dangerous. Finally a very good goal. It probably shouldn't have stood with a player in an offside position right in front of the goalkeeper. We will keep quiet about that."

GOAL Scotland 2-2 Germany

Manuel Neuer, the world's best keeper? Not on tonight's showing. The Bayern Munich man has another moment to forget as Scotland level again!

A corner from the left is half-cleared, James McArthur follows up with a shot from 16 yards that is more ankle than instep, the ball takes an odd trajectory but is enough to beat the dive of Neuer. Scotland back in it.

Reuters

Northern Ireland continue to boss this one, Corry Evans playing a lovely give-and-go that Peter Beardsley would be pleased with but his final touch sees him run into traffic. Another cross then ends up in the hands of Gabor Kiraly. No sign of nerves though from the men in green. 

BBC Radio 5 Live

Former Northern Ireland defender Gerry Taggart: "Hungary are well organised. I just think when there is good movement around the front line they will struggle."

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DISALLOWED GOAL

Mario Gotze with a lovely turn and volley into the net - but he's offside. Scotland on the ropes, taking a pummeling now. 

Still no goals in Dublin, still no real signs of one either. Get Shane Long on.

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Hmm, answers on a postcard. Or a more slightly modern medium, if you prefer.

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The 30 club

Thomas Muller now has 30 international goals - the same amount as Alan Shearer. And he's still only 25.

EPA

Pat Nevin

Ex-Scotland international on BBC Radio 5 live

"We have had three goals in this game and they have all been very scrappy. I don't think Thomas Muller will care."

GOAL - Scotland 1-2 Germany

Just like that, Gary!

It's quite a Lineker-esque finish actually from Thomas Muller, bagging his fourth goal against Scotland in the group. A lovely move tees up Emre Can for a shot, his side-footer is parried out by David Marshall and Muller just about bundles a header in off the far post. Charlie Mulgrew cleared it away but the ball was clearly in. 

AP

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Almost a top-class own goal from Scotland center-back Grant Hanley, getting his body in a horrible position and almost hooking a clearance into the net. 

BBC Radio 5 Live

Former Northern Ireland defender Gerry Taggart: "They have to keep giving Stuart Dallas the ball and something will happen. Surely?"

GT is on it.

Reuters

The gameplan

It's not often you hear international instructions but the microphones pick out Michael O'Neill's shouts from the sideline. Ready for the gold?

"Keep the ball. KEEP THE BALL! And find [Stuart] Dallas!"

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Johnny C: Impressed with the ref in #NIRvHUN game looking to play advantage where possible - premier league refs take note

Pat Nevin

Ex-Scotland international on BBC Radio 5 live

"Since Scotland lost the goal, they really came into the game. The goalkeeper has to do better with that though."

GOAL - Scotland 1-1 Germany

Rod Stewart's got his jacket off! Big!

Scotland make a mockery of that stat with a leveller courtesy of the wand of Shaun Maloney's foot.

His inswinging free-kick is beautifully hit, but you'd still expect Manuel Neuer to pouch it. Instead he can only palm it out and on to the chest of perennial Premier League gossip fodder Mats Hummels, who chests unwittingly into his own net. Game on.

Reuters

If you don't want to know the score

Look away now.

In the last 70 competitive internationals in which Germany have scored first, they have won 65. And drawn the other five.

The Republic testing Georgia's patience and defensive shape with a flurry of Glenn Whelan corners but John O'Shea and co can't force it home.

Reuters

I predict a red card or two at Windsor Park tonight. It's a bit tetchy. Olivier Norwood fires in a dipping free-kick which Gabor Kiraly pushes out.

Remember him? Pyjama-bottomed former Palace legend in nets. Like him. 

Alasdair Lamont

BBC Sport Scotland

"All it took was for one player - James McArthur - to just get over-anxious to try to cut a pass out rather than keep the shape and Germany capitalise. The irony is that Thomas Muller didn't really get a hold of the shot, but the slight deflection completely wrong-footed David Marshall."

Reuters

The Elland Road connection?

BBC Radio 5 Live

Former Northern Ireland defender Gerry Taggart: "There are some good passages of play early on for Northern Ireland."

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Back on top

That goal puts Germany back on top of Group D, where I fully expect them to stay.

Or can Scotland spring a surprise? It's been a meek effort so far. 

Pat Nevin

Ex-Scotland international on BBC Radio 5 live

"There was a massive gap in front of the Scotland defenders and Germany are getting in far too easily."

GOAL - Scotland 0-1 Germany

Thomas Mullercollects another Germany goal to put Scotland in trouble. The defence back off the Bayern man, never a wise idea, and the former Golden Boot winner cracks in a left-footed strike which takes a hefty deflection off Russell Martin and into the net.

Reuters

YELLOW CARD

One from the Paul Scholes tackling textbook as Richard Guzmics slices through the back of Kyle Lafferty. Booking. 

Pat Nevin

Ex-Scotland international on BBC Radio 5 live

"They will be pleased they have not lost a goal. Mario Gotze playing the false nine is killing Scotland though, they don't know how to play it. Worrying times for me."

Alasdair Lamont

BBC Sport Scotland

"Germany's passing and movement is a joy to behold, but Scotland are sticking doggedly to their task, making it difficult for the visitors to find any penetrating passes into the penalty area. Gordon Strachan's men are well organised, but can they keep up the level of concentration required for the next 75 minutes?"

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A let-off for the home side as Levan Mchedlidze drives through a slow back four but slices his shot and Shay Given is able to make an easy save. 

Poland are now 2-0 up against Gibraltar. Six is par. 

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Alastair Allen:  Of all nights to be in Poland! Watching Pol vs Gib but following Norn Iron on #bbcfootball.

Don't forget you can listen to commentary online by clicking on the audio icon on this page.

EPA

You can never really be 'stuck' in Barcelona Conor. Enjoy yourself man! What a place.

Northern Ireland almost catch out a Hungary defence possessing the organisational skills of a Northern Irishman on a European jaunt, they are very slow to react to a quick Steven Davis free-kick and Stuart Dallas has his shot blocked. 

The hosts on top...

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Ready for some very poor planning.....

Still Germany probe and press but nothing much for Dave Marshall in the Scotland net to do just yet. 

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Sarah Morgan: Northern Ireland rendition of anthem embodies passion and commitment which makes Euros place so richly deserved.

BBC Radio 5 Live

Former Northern Ireland defender Gerry Taggart: "When you have foreign referees on your own soil you have to be a little bit careful. There was nothing malcious in that from Lafferty, the centre half has made a lot of it."

Reuters

Poles on top

Big news in Group D as Poland take an early lead against Gibraltar.

Hardly a shock of course but it means they top the group, ahead of Germany, Republic of Ireland and Scotland. 

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YELLOW CARD - Lafferty banned

Bad news for Northern Ireland as top striker Kyle Lafferty piles into a late challenge and picks up a booking which rules him out of the next game against Greece. Even more reason to wrap it up tonight lads...

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A little bit of Arsenal v Norwich as Mesut Ozil drives forwards and has a shot well charged down by Russell Martin. Joachim Low doesn't look too impressed with his side's start. 

Hungary looking shaky at the back, conceding unnecessary free-kicks in tough areas. Send up the big men!

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Tom McDowell: Some people forget that Northern Ireland also beat Spain in the Euro 2008 qualifiers 3-2, David Healy scored all 3!

Tom Hughes: Come on Green and white army end (nearly) 30 years of hurt and join England in the euros.

EdinburghMayhem: Gareth Bale MUST have a Scottish granny. EVERYONE has a Scottish granny.

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Colin from Antrim on text:  I haven't heard Windsor Park this loud for 10 years!!        

The hosts off to a fairly bright start? Is their line-up lacking in ambition though? Robbie Keane rather starved of support up top. 

BBC Radio 5 Live

Former Northern Ireland defender Gerry Taggart: "It is a bit scrappy to start with. The Hungarians are trying to get the ball down and play the typical European style while Northern Ireland are trying to put them under pressure."

Reuters

CLOSE!

Hungary, keen to play the role of party poopers, have the first strike on goal, with Balazs Dzsudzsak firing wide from 20 yards. Good crack. 

BBC Radio 5 Live

Alasdair Lamont

BBC Sport Scotland

"Fair play to the Scotland fans - that was some racket they were making at kick-off. The Germans have been speaking about looking forward to sampling the atmosphere here, but they'll be well used to nights like this, with Bundesliga crowds well known for their own ability to make a bit of noise."

Reuters

Scotland get through the first 90 seconds without conceding. Germany seeing all of the ball against a very rigid-looking Scottish line-up.

Follow that game in full here.

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Corry Evans nails his man with an early reducer - perhaps a sign of why he's in the team tonight? The fans love that. 

Pat Nevin

Ex-Scotland international on BBC Radio 5 live

"Scotland can raise themselves, it is going to be a tough one and a point would be fabulous.

"They haven't had the best preparation, they were forced to eat Burger King after the game in Georgia on Friday night."

You can listen to commentary online on this page.

*Other, unhealthy fast-food burgers are available

KICK-OFF

And we are go!

Reuters

BBC Radio 5 Live

Former Northern Ireland defender Gerry Taggart: "This is massive for Northern Ireland. Looking at the guys before the anthem, they looked nice and relaxed."

Reuters

Someone say 'big game?'

Sir Alex Ferguson is the guest of honour at Hampden Park, shaking hands with one and all. He knows how to win games like this. Wonder if he's given former student Gordon Strachan a few tips?

The history boys

Alasdair Lamont

BBC Sport Scotland

"The visiting German fans are in good voice inside Hampden. Wouldn't it be great to follow a team who have a genuine chance of winning every single game they play?

"No such luck for the Scots, who've been slow to fill the stadium, perhaps wary of what's to come. Nonetheless, with just over five minutes to kick off, the Tartan Army are getting into the swing of things with The Proclaimers' 500 Miles."

Alistair Bruce-Ball

BBC Radio 5 live commentator

"10,000 fans in Northern Ireland making the noise of 80,000. What an opportunity."

How they stand

.

'Green and white army!' is the chant ringing out from the stands. Northern Ireland are 90 minutes away from France.

Possibly less by air, but you know what I mean.

Students will be singing that one in Newcastle tomorrow night...

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Eat your heart out the Toure brothers...

Here they come...

Teams in tunnels, mascots buzzing about. Officials, flags, pennants, trinkets and ball boys.

There are only just over 10,000 fans inside a partly-refurbished Windsor Park. If Northern Ireland win, 10 times as many will tell you they were there...

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Noel Fitzpatrick:  Although I'll be focussing on our match against Georgia, I wish all the best to our Northern counterparts against Hungary!!

Stephen Kennedy:  Sweet Caroline just started at Windsor. Party time.

Destiny calling

Northern Ireland manager Michael Neill on Sky Sports : "We still have destiny in our own hands if we don't win, but I do think it is important we don't lose. We are going to try to win the game

"The players are ready to play."

Dublin up

A relatively sparse arena in Dublin just 10 minutes from kick-off. Time for one more drop of the black stuff...

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Andrew from Richhill on text:  I'm 26 years old and this is the biggest game Northern Ireland have played in my lifetime. For years I have heard stories from my dad about George Best gliding down the wing, kicking the ball out of Gordon Banks' hands, about the famous qualifying successes in 1981 and 1983 and all about the famous victory over Spain at the 1982 World Cup. Tonight at Windsor Park this Northern Ireland side have a chance to give my generation some glory!            

It's all too much Andrew...

PA

Kyle Lafferty has scored six goals in qualifying

"I never imagined that we would be in this position. This could be the first time Northern Ireland have ever qualified for a Euro finals. It really is some achievement and we can't wait to make sure we get across the finish line."

Kyle LaffertyStriker

How they stand

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All to play for the top four still. As the Flight of the Conchords would say, 'it's business, it's business time!'

H-E-A-L-Y!

PA

Tonight could be a huge one for Northern Irish football. The big nights have been few and far between over the last 10-15 years, but one that lives long in the memory is the win over England 10 years ago.

David Healy's goal gave the Northern Irish a win over Sven-Goran Eriksson's side - exactly 10 years ago to the day.

To celebrate the anniversary, BBC Sport invited four players from that team - Aaron Hughes, Healy, Steven Davis and Maik Taylor - to a night out at the cinema. Not to watch a new release, but to view a classic - Northern Ireland 1 England 0, 7 September, 2005.  

Alasdair Lamont

BBC Sport Scotland

"Some interesting tactical tinkering from Gordon Strachan for the visit of the world champions. Charlie Mulgrew to left back, perhaps to combat Thomas Muller's aerial prowess. Will he be able to cope with his prowess on the deck though?

"Grant Hanley comes in at centre-back alongside Russell Martin. James McArthur coming into the midfield allows James Morrison to push forward into a more natural attacking midfield role, with Stevie Naismith dropping to the bench.

"James Forrest replaced Ikechi Anya on the wing. Germany's only change from the win over Poland is Ilkay Gundogan in place of Karim Bellarabi. It's a very strong visiting line-up."

Thirty years of hurt

BBC Radio 5 Live

Former Northern Ireland defender Gerry Taggart on BBC Radio 5 live: "The memories this brings back to when we qualifed in 1986 is great. For those memories to return will be immense if it happens.

"You can't overstate the importance of us going through. Thirty years is a long time ago. Noone deserves it more than the set of lads out there."

Former Republic of Ireland defender Steven Reid is feeling the nerves...

Just over 15 minutes to go in tonight's big games. Who can claim their very own 15 minutes of fame and help their nation qualify for the big one next summer?

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Paul Sullivan : Scotland have more chance of a result facing the 'Belarusian Bolognese' than the Germans tonight. (see 19:20 BST)

Steven McNamara: Depressing to see Jonathan Walters start ahead of Shane Long who is twice the player, and no natural winger with pace in the XI.

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Steve Modbury on text:  Northern Ireland without doubt (would be the greatest qualification achievement) as they haven't got the calibre of player such as Bale or Ramsey which has made Chris Coleman's job a lot easier.      

BBC Radio 5 Live

You can listen to the build up for all the home nations in action right now, followed by live commentary from Windsor Park on radio and online.

Traffic problems

Far from ideal preparations for the Scotland squad as their coach was delayed on the M8 amid rush-hour traffic.

The players were safely spirited to Hampden but thousands of fans are still trying to make their way to the national stadium.

The kitman cometh

Mind you, what can you do to mess up a bolognese?

Students the land over need to know.

Avoid the Italian!

BBC

It was a dodgy lasagne that did for Tottenham's Champions League hopes in 2006.

And now a questionable spag bol has scuppered Luxembourg a day before their qualifier against Belarus.

A Luxembourg Football Federation spokesman said that the players suffered "terrible stomach aches" and spent hours in the bathroom after eating the  meal in Minsk.

With 16 of the 20 players in the squad affected, Luxembourg "are in close contact with Uefa" about possibly rearranging Tuesday's Group C game.

Not nice. Not nice at all.

Pat Nevin

Ex-Scotland international on BBC Radio 5 live

"You have to be positive, you have to boost the lads. Gordon Strachan is no fool, he will know it wasn't a good performance by any of the Scottish players on Friday. But let's not get carried away, they have played well this campaign."

The magnificent seven

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If you fancy Scotland to break the streak they are available at about 8/1...

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Who would win a five-team tournament on current form bewteen Wales, Scotland, Northern Ireland, Republic of Ireland or England? Who would get the wooden spoon? And why?

Ruaridh Williams: I would've said Scotland but after these qualifiers, I'd say Northern Ireland. They look the most complete package.

Samuel Rhehuman: If anyone says anything other than England winning, they're nuts. ROI for wooden spoon.

Get in touch at #bbcfootball, pop on to the BBC Sport Facebook page or BBC Sport's Google+ area. You can also text us on 81111 in the UK only - don't forget to say who you are and where you are texting from.  

Reuters

A winner?

The scene is set...

Keane for more

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Republic of Ireland striker Robbie Keane is now just one goal shy of German legend Gerd Muller for the coveted spot of 12th all-time international top scorer as Ireland prepare to play Georgia in Dublin.

Iran's Ali Daei leads the way with a stunning 109 goals in 149 appearances, with Ferenc Puskas, who played for Hungary and Spain, in second with 84 goals in 89 games.

Remember Stern John? The former Birmingham and Coventry striker is 10th in the list with 70 goals in 115 matches for Trinidad and Tobago. 

Who has qualified?

There are still at least two qualifiers left in each Euro 2016 qualifying group, but a few teams have now booked their place in the hat for December's draw. Don't forget we have 24 teams in the finals for the first time.

They are:

France (hosts)

England

Czech Republic

Iceland

Reuters

And a win this evening Thomas could just do it for you - providing the Republic of Ireland lose to Georgia that is.

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I can help you there Stephen.

That would be Iceland, about 20 hours ago...

Team news

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Max Baggins-Craig:  I've faith in NI, ROI, Scot & Wales. NI will walk through. Scots may be unfortunate though.

Andrew Priestley:  Normally I look forward to 'enjoying' a game of football, but as a NI fan I don't think I'll enjoy much of the game tonight!

Hi mum!

Northern Ireland manager Michael O'Neill is snapped on his phone in the warm-up to the game.

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Germany can qualify tonight

It was looking shaky for a while in Group D, but Germany can qualify tonight if they win in Glasgow and the Republic of Ireland lose to Georgia in Dublin.   

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England are there. Wales are nearly there, Northern Ireland too.

Scotland and the Republic of Ireland are still in with a shout.

But who would win a five-team tournament on current form? Who would get the wooden spoon? And why?

No one-word answers please...

AP

Get in touch at #bbcfootball, pop on to the BBC Sport Facebook page or BBC Sport's Google+ area. You can also text us on 81111 in the UK only - don't forget to say who you are and where you are texting from.

Bring on the champions

Scotland made a hash of Group D qualification over the weekend, losing to Georgia.

Now, the small matter of hosting world champions Germany. A terrifying prospect, or time to stand up and be counted?

We will bring you all the key updates from that game, but you can follow a separate live page here.

AP

Listen Live!

BBC Radio 5 Live

You can follow all the build up to tonight's qualifiers on BBC Radio 5 live from 19:00 BST, followed by live commentary on Northern Ireland v Hungary and updates from the other home nations.

This is followed by the 5 live social at 22:00 BST, with your calls and social media reaction following the action.

You can listen to all the radio coverage online.

A first for everything?

What a story is brewing in Group I.

Albania, who have never qualified for a major tournament, will move top of the group if they repeat their 2014 win over Portugal at home this evening.

Portugal are one point clear of Albania, with both sides having a game in hand on the other teams in the group.

Denmark are second in the five-team qualifying pool but could only draw 0-0 with Armenia today. Good news for Albania.

Albania!

Republic in with a shout

Over in Group F, the Republic of Ireland's chances of qualifying for a second straight Euros were boosted at the weekend as Scotland slipped up against Georgia.

A win tonight against the same opposition could see Martin O'Neill's men go ahead of Poland and back into the automatic qualification places.

Team news

BBC Northern Ireland's Lyle Jackson: Midfielder Corry Evans comes into the Northern Ireland team tonight as manager Michael O'Neill makes one change from Friday's victory in the Faroe Islands.

Aberdeen's Niall McGinn makes way for the 25-year-old Blackburn Rovers player as Northern Ireland attempt to seal their place at the Euro 2016 finals.

The rest of the team is unchanged with Hamilton Academical's Michael McGovern keeping his place in goal. Kyle Lafferty, without a game for his club Norwich this season, will be hoping to add to the six goals he has already scored in the Group F campaign.

Northern Ireland: McGovern, McLaughlin, McAuley, J Evans, Brunt, Norwood, Davis, Baird, C Evans, Dallas, Lafferty.

Team News

Scotland XI: Marshall, Hutton, Mulgrew, R.Martin. Hanley, McArthur, Morrison, Brown (C), S.Fletcher, Forrest, Maloney. 

Scotland bring in Grant Hanley, James Forrest and James McArthur. 

Team news

Republic of Ireland boss Martin O'Neill welcomes Everton defender Seamus Coleman back into the side.

The 26-year-old first choice full-back missed Friday's 4-0 win over Gibraltar because of a hamstring injury.

Cyrus Christie - with two goals in three caps - is dropped. Harsh.

Republic of Ireland XI:Given; Coleman, O'Shea, Clark, Brady; Whelan, McCarthy, Hendrick; Hoolahan; Walters, Keane"  

Vote now

Whose qualification would be the most impressive?

Northern Ireland, Republic of Ireland, Scotland or Wales?

Have your say by clicking on the vote above. Do it now!

BBC Sport

Only nine members of the current Northern Ireland squad were alive when the country were at the Mexico World Cup in 1986.

It's a once-in-a-generation opportunity for the squad - can they grasp it tonight?

Three points from glory

A win tonight and Northern Ireland's current crop will have their places in sporting folklore assured.

It is 29 years since they last made the finals of a major tournament. But three points this evening will be enough for Michael O'Neill's men to book a place at next year's party in France.

All aboard!

Reuters

So close you can touch it

Summer, 1986.

Steve Guttenberg once again wowed summer filmgoers in the tremendous Short Circuit.

Bread, Brush Strokes and Casualty all hit the small screen for the first time.

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If you don't know who this man is, you've got a lot of catching up to do...

The radio waves rocked to the sounds of the Pet Shop Boys, Madonna, Berlin and Europe's 'The Final Countdown'. What a time to be alive.  

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And, while Maradona single-handedly tore defences apart on his way to World Cup glory with Argentina, Northern Ireland were there, on football's biggest stage.

Much has changed. Little has improved.

But now, almost 30 years on, the team are back in the mixer...

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