Belgium 0-1 Germany

Germany kicked off their Euro 2012 qualifying campaign with a narrow 1-0 victory in Belgium tonight. The hosts looked lively at both ends of the pitch for much of the match, but Miroslav Klose's solitary strike early in the second half was enough for the Germans to take three points.

The visitors won the majority of possession and looked the brighter team in terms of passing speed and overall attacking synthesis, but their hosts arguably had the better opportunities in the first half. Following a mistake by Bastian Schweinsteiger, Romelu Lukaku forced a save from Manuel Neuer. Later, Marouane Fellaini nearly played 17-year-old forward through on goal, but Lukaku was a hair offside.

Following the interval, the Germans' attack sharpened as Schweinsteiger lent his support up front, and not long after the central midfielder made goalkeeper Logan Bailly panic, Klose pounced on his opportunity to strike. Schweinsteiger won the ball off Daniel van Buyten deep in the attacking half before Thomas Mueller slipped a through ball to Klose, who finished coolly.

Later in the game, Germany nearly doubled their advantage after Philipp Lahm's superb run and cut-back to Mueller, but the young forward's shot was pushed just wide of the post. Belgium pressed forward in search of an equaliser and looked bright in spells, but struggled to create scoring opportunities and failed to earn a point.

The result puts Germany level on points with Turkey, who lead Group A following their 3-0 victory in Kazakhstan earlier today. Belgium are without points, but have a chance to catch up to Turkey when the two teams face off on Tuesday.