Northern Ireland boss Michael O’Neill hails his players after securing

Martin O’Neill paid tribute to his Republic of Ireland players after they recorded a stunning 1-0 victory over world champions Germany in Euro 2016 qualifying.

“What happened is what happens with teams like Ireland and that is that we had a lot of possession”, Germany defender Mats Hummels said.

In front of a jubilant 12,000 capacity crowd at Windsor Park that included Northern Irish golf star Rory McIlroy, Southampton midfielder Davis put the Group F leaders ahead late in the first half and Kilmarnock forward Josh Magennis struck after half-time.

In Group I, Joao Moutinho scored the only goal in the 66th minute to give Portugal a 1-0 victory over Denmark and a place into the group stages of the Euro 2016 tournament.

To beat the world champions is a sensational effort.

Darren Randolf was in hold of the ball and sent a long kick to striker Long, who outpaced the German defence to fire past Manuel Neuer in the Germany goal, send the Aviva into erruption.

In Belfast, Northern Ireland ensured they will make their first-ever appearance at the European championships next June after easing past Euro 2004 winners Greece 3-1.

Martin O’Neill’s side are now guaranteed at least a play-off spot in Group D of the European Qualifiers, and can qualify automatically if they win in Poland on Sunday.

At Hampden Park, Scotland came from behind to lead Poland with superb strikes from Matt Ritchie and Fletcher, who curled a magnificent effort into the top corner, but a last-gasp Robert Lewandowski strike secured a 2-2 draw for the Poles.

Germany hosts already eliminated Georgia in Leipzig on Sunday, when a draw would be enough.

Seeded fifth in a qualifying group of five, ranked 129 in the world two years ago, their success is a triumph for teamwork, momentum, belief and perseverance.

The Irish were on the verge of history and their dreams came true as the referee blew for the full time whistle.

Captain John O’Shea added: “We wanted to get it back in our hands and now we’ve stepped up again tonight and showed we can go on to get automatic qualification”. It’s about the nation and about everybody pulling together to try to achieve one goal, and that’s to qualify for France. Hristos Aravidis netted a consolation for Greece with four minutes remaining.