Germany had been forced to retrieve a two-goal deficit in Finland but they had few problems thanks to goals from Marko Rehmer and Michael Ballack. With five wins and one draw in six matches, Germany now have 16 points and a victory over England in Munich on September 1 will ensure top-spot in the group and qualification for the World Cup finals.
Defeat however leaves Albania in bottom place with three points.
Hertha Berlin defender Rehmer volleyed home the opener after 27 minutes from inside the six-yard box after Carsten Jancker had powered a header down into the danger area. The goal was just reward for coach Rudi Voller, who had sent his team out in a positive formation. But the German plans were dealt a blow when Carsten Ramelow was sent off in the 34th minute along with Albania striker Edwin Murati after the pair had clashed following a challenge from the Bayer Leverkusen man. The tactic allowed Albania, who threatened fitfully, their share of possession, but gave their visitors the chance to sweep forward in waves. Replays showed that Neuville's 'goal' should have stood but the Leverkusen striker did not get the opportunity to right the wrong as he was substituted at half-time for Bayern forward Alexander Zickler.