Joachim Low's side are only three points above the Czech Republic, but victory would mean they extend that to six with a superior head-to-head record with two games to go.

And if the Czechs were hoping that a guaranteed place in the finals will make Germany complacent then they are sorely mistaken.

"Now we can start making plans," Low said, looking ahead to Euro 2008. "But first we have the Czechs on the agenda. We have to do well. A match against the Czechs is always exciting."

The Czech Republic know that they can secure their place in the finals with a victory in Munich.

However, with key players such as left-back Marek Jankulovski, midfield anchorman Jan Polak and striker Milan Baros all suspended, and uncertainty over whether playmaker Tomas Rosicky will recover from a thigh injury in time, the chances of success over an unbeaten Germany look increasingly slim.

The Republic of Ireland will be looking to take advantage of any slip-up from the Czechs.

Five points behind Karel Bruckner's men and having played a game extra, the Irish must win against Cyprus to keep their qualification hopes alive.

And their cause has not been helped by the suspension of defender Richard Dunne and midfielder Lee Carsley after they picked up yellow cards on Saturday. John O'Shea could recover from his leg injury in time but striker Shane Long is definitely out with a groin problem.

The other Group D match sees Wales take on San Marino who have scored just one goal in their 10 qualifying matches.