It was always going to be a tall task trying to defeat the reigning World Cup champions, but Slovakia did themselves no favors on Sunday after a poor start against Germany.

Jurgen Low’s side cruised to a 3-0 win against Slovakia, booking their place in the quarterfinals after their most convincing performance of Euro 2016.

Germany took the lead after just eight minutes, when Jerome Boateng scored his first career international goal. Following a corner kick, the ball fell to the Bayern Munich defender’s feet at the top of the box, before slotting his effort into the bottom corner.

Mesut Ozil had the chance to double Germany’s advantage in the 13th minute, however, his penalty kick effort was saved by Matus Kozacik. Slovakia defender Martin Skrtel was the guilty party, after taking down Mario Gomez inside the area.

 

Gomez capitalized at the tail end of the first half, though, giving Germany a 2-0 lead with a clever finish near goal. Julian Draxler did well to work himself free as he headed towards the left end line, before squaring the ball for Gomez, who made no mistake with the final touch.

Despite building some pressure in the second half, Slovakia couldn’t break down the German backline, which proved costly when Germany added a third goal in the 63rd minute. Draxler perfectly slotted his side-volley into the back of the net, essentially putting the game to bed.

Germany will meet either Italy or Spain in the quarterfinals on July 2.

MAN OF THE MATCH

Julian Draxler was lively and even had a goal to show for his special performance against Slovakia.

MOMENT OF THE MATCH

Germany’s attack did almost everything right on the afternoon, but Julian Draxler’s volley capped off the dominating performance.

MATCH TO FORGET

On several occasions all Matus Kozacik could do was sit back and watch Germany’s attack make their way into the Slovakia end, and the keeper couldn’t do anything to keep them out.