Klose Scores Two

The victory keeps Group D leaders Germany five points clear of Czech Republic who were 3-0 winners at San Marino, and now eight clear of Ireland who were held 2-2 in Slovakia.

"It was important to get three points here," said Klose, who won the 2006 World Cup Golden Boot. "We're the clear table leaders and have to keep playing the way we have been."

After eight from 12 games, Germany are on 22 points from a possible 24, with the Czech Republic on 17 and Ireland on 14. Wales have seven points.

"I am absolutely satisfied with the result because we have often had difficulties here," said Germany soccer coach Joachim Löw. "The constellation in our group is now outstanding. We have taken a big step with this victory."

Experience sparse in German team

Germany were in charge from the start and went in front when Thomas Hitzlsperger won a tackle in midfield and Klose was fed by Kevin Kuranyi to score with the outside of his right foot.

However the absence of key players in midfield including Michael Ballack, Torsten Frings and Bernd Schneider showed in the first half, with German possession rarely leading to danger in front of the Welsh goal.

Bastian Schweinsteiger, given a central midfield role, was busy throughout the match and at times seemed overwhelmed out of his typical spot on the left side.

"We played a good match, but could have scored a few more goals," said Schweini, who came closest to upping the German total when he shaved the crossbar with a shot in the second half.

Löw: Germany in position for Euro 2008

But Wales were limited going forward and vague hopes of retaliation were dashed when Klose notched his second goal with 30 minutes left to play, brining his international tally up to 35.

Wales defender Gareth Bale was dispossessed on the right by Roberto Hilpert and the Stuttgart midfielder had time to find Klose with a cross which the Bayern Munich striker gratefully headed into the net.

"After this win we can be more relaxed ahead of the matches in October in Ireland and against the Czech Republic," Löw said. "I think we are in a position to reach the European finals."

Germany are not in Euro 2008 qualifying action on Wednesday, playing a friendly against Romania instead, while the Czech Republic entertain Ireland, and Slovakia are up against Wales.