Germans party hard after sealing World Cup 2014 berth

Germany face Sweden away in their final World Cup qualifier tomorrow, but his stars seized the opportunity by partying until 04:30 on Saturday morning after Loew gave them the weekend off.

Germany's Andre Schurrle (left) celebrates with teammates after scoring against Ireland in Cologne, western Germany on Friday. Pic/AFP

Germany booked their Brazil 2014 place with a 3-0 win over Republic of Ireland in Cologne on Friday with Brazilian music and a barrel of beer soon pumping out in the dressing room after the match.

"It was the first time I drank a beer before a press conference, but it tasted good," quipped Loew.u00a0There is only pride at stake on Tuesday with Germany confirmed Group C winners, while the second-placed Swedes face a World Cup play-off in November.

"We have earned the right to a bit of a party to celebrate," German captain Philipp Lahm said in Cologne. "After all, a barrel of Cologne beer is about the same size as a (litre) mug of Bavarian beer."

Pictures of the partying German squad have found their way into German papers Bild and Cologne-based Express.u00a0Comedian Oliver Pocher posted a picture of himself on Twitter with a group of players, including Arsenal star Per Mertesacker, alongside the text: "Already world champions in partying!"

The party spirit got the better of Loew, who rushed to congratulate his players after the final whistle rather than seeking out Ireland's caretaker coach Noel King for the customary hand shake.u00a0