Germany qualifies for 2010 World Cup

After Netherlands, England, and Spain qualified for the 2010 World Cup in South Africa, Germany becomes the fourth team from the Europe Zone.

During Saturday's qualifying match, Germany's first-half goal against Russia was enough to book a place for the Germans in South Africa.

Miroslav Klose scored in the 34th minute at the Luzhniki stadium in Moscow for the 10-man Germans.

The striker fired into an empty net to put his team ahead after a clever pass by Mesut Ozil left Russian goalkeeper Igor Akenfeyev off his line. It was Klose's 50th goal for Germany.

Defender Jerome Boateng was shown the second yellow card in the 69th minute.

Joachim Loew's side safely saw out the game to leave Moscow with the three points.

Germany, with 25 points from nine games, will finish at the top of the group. Second-placed Russia, on 21 points, still has the chance to qualify for the World Cup in the playoffs.